The Oregon City Police Department conducted its first pedestrian safety enforcement operation for 2018. The safety enforcement operation was funded by a grant from Oregon Impact.

The primary focus of this operation was to educate drivers and help raise awareness of the pedestrian right away laws. The Oregon City Police Department used a pedestrian decoy, while another police officer observed traffic violations occurring and radioed awaiting uniform officers to make the stop. The officers issued citations or warnings to help educate the violators. Eight drivers did not stop for the pedestrian decoy.

The safety operation occurred on July 6, 2018, at the intersection of 7th St. and John Adams St. between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. The operation resulted in 36 drivers being stopped. The violations included 8 citations issued for failing to stop or remained stopped for a pedestrian, 9 citations issued for driving while using a mobile communication device, 1 for no insurance, 2 for failure to obey a traffic control device, 2 for no operator’s license, 2 for not wearing a seatbelt, and 1 equipment violation.  One driver was arrested for driving while criminally suspended.  9 warnings were given during the operation.

This intersection was specifically selected for the pedestrian safety operation due to heavy foot traffic along 7th St.  This intersection has a flashing pedestrian signal at the crosswalk.  The Oregon City Police Department wants to remind everyone to be aware of your surroundings when operating a motor vehicle and avoid distracted driving by not using your mobile communication device.