JCPD celebrates success of ‘A Safer 26 in ’24’ campaign, announces new initiative

Published 12:34 pm Monday, January 27, 2025

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Johnson City — The Johnson City Police Department (JCPD) is proud to announce significant progress in improving safety on Interstate 26 through the yearlong “A Safer 26 in ’24” campaign. The multi-agency effort, launched on Jan. 26, 2024, focused on increasing officer presence on I-26 and promoting safer driving behaviors.

Key accomplishments of the campaign through Jan. 25, 2025, include:

  • A 6.5% reduction in crashes along I-26 compared to the previous year.
  • A 50% reduction in fatal crashes on I-26 compared to the previous year.
  • An 86% increase in traffic stops, enhancing enforcement of traffic laws.
  • 1,955 citations issued for speeding, distracted driving, and other violations.
  • 735 written warnings issued, a jump of 537 from 2023.
  • 559 verbal warnings, up from 383 in the previous year.

“We are happy with the progress made through ‘A Safer 26 in ’24,’” said JCPD Chief Billy Church. “It demonstrates the power of collaboration between law enforcement, transportation agencies, and the public to create a safer I-26 for motorists.”

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Looking ahead, the JCPD will build on this momentum with a new initiative, “A Safer Drive in ’25.” Key objectives for 2025 include:

  • Increasing public awareness about impaired and distracted driving.
  • Promoting safe driving habits.
  • Maintaining an increased JCPD presence on I-26.

“Safety is our top priority, and changing bad driving habits is part of that,” said Chief Church. “The JCPD aims to build on the progress made in 2024 to help ensure I-26 is safer for everyone, but we need the help of drivers to create that environment. Watch your speed, keep plenty of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you, and remove any distractions, like your cell phone.”

The JCPD extends its gratitude to local law enforcement agencies, the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the Tennessee Highway Safety Office, local organizations, the community, and area media who contributed to the success of “A Safer 26 in ’24.”

Drivers are now encouraged to rise to the challenge of making 2025 “A Safer Drive in ’25.”