The Highway Patrol is planning a safety initiative to focus on drivers engaging in risky driving behavior in every state where I-35 and/or I-80 pass through.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol the  I-80/I-35 Border-to-Border traffic safety initiative will run from August 28-30.  During that time  motorists will notice state troopers and other law enforcement officers out in full force in the 16 states where I-80/I-35 pass through. The troopers will be strictly enforcing all traffic laws and providing assistance to motorists when needed.

Both I-80 and I-35 have high volumes of traffic. In Missouri, this initiative will take place in the Troop H area on Interstate 35.

“Driving is a full-time job,” said Captain McDonald, commanding officer of Troop H. “Please put your cell phone away, be a courteous driver, and pay attention when you’re on the road. Troopers are pleased to join the I-80/I-35 Border-to-Border initiative by providing additional officers on I-35.”

From 2009-2013, 73 people were killed nationwide in traffic crashes during the month of August while traveling on I-35. Of the 73 killed nationwide, four were killed in crashes occurring on the portion of I-35 that runs through Missouri.

The border-to-border traffic safety initiative was developed by the Iowa State Patrol and supported by the National Highway Safety Administration.