The Sacramento Police Department is intensifying traffic enforcement in Midtown Sacramento during Pedestrian Safety Month, using unmarked officers to monitor driver behavior. In response to 55 pedestrian fatalities over the past year, the department is focusing on reducing traffic incidents. A recent operation resulted in 49 citations for drivers who failed to yield to pedestrians, according to CBS News.
Midtown experiences frequent interactions between pedestrians and vehicles, sometimes resulting in unfortunate incidents. Officer Anthony Gamble emphasized the department's dedication to improving safety, stating, "We want to let the community know we are out here addressing this issue," especially in light of a recent motorcycle crash in the area. Residents like Mars Palomera share personal experiences of close calls, with Palomera recalling, "I had to dodge the car and I just remember my heart beating and me being like, 'Oh my God. People don't really care about people who walk here,'" as reported by CBS News. The strategy extends beyond daytime operations. Sac PD Chief Kathy Lester noted a critical issue, stating, "We're seeing that about half of accidents take place in the evenings and late night hours when we really have no coverage other than patrol." In response, the department is reallocating resources to create a nighttime traffic safety team to target dangerous driving behaviors after dark. This initiative is part of a broader citywide effort, which recently included lowering speed limits on 14 streets to reduce the pace of traffic.
Traffic stops are being meticulously tracked and analyzed as part of a broader data collection effort, with findings from over fifty recent stops in Midtown to be presented to city officials. Officer Gamble stressed the importance of vigilance for both drivers and pedestrians, advising, "Drivers, you have to be aware of what's going on around you. Keep your phone out of your hand. Be aware of the pedestrians that might be coming out in between cars. But also pedestrians— you have to be aware of what's going on around you as well. Take out earphones from both ears. So you can hear what's going on around you," as shared with KCRA 3. The data collected may guide future safety enhancements at high-risk intersections throughout Midtown Sacramento.
