Ossining Heralded for Traffic Safety

The Village of Ossining is being recognized for its traffic safety. The American Automobile Association (AAA) presented Mayor Bill Hanauer and Lt. Michael McElroy with the Gold Award. AAA bestowed the award on the municipality because the Village of Ossining has not had a pedestrian fatality in two-years. In addition, AAA says the village has spearheaded numerous traffic safety efforts. Those initiatives include STOP-DWI and Aggressive Driving programs.

For many years, the American Automobile Association has recognized municipalities that are outstanding when it comes making our roads safer. This year, AAA gave out a total of 60 awards here in New York state.

"We are very honored to receive the safety award. We have two years without a pedestrian fatality as well as over 90% compliance with the seatbelt enforcement program," said Ossining Police Department Lt. Michael McElroy. "In addition, we have conducted vigorous speed and driving while intoxicated enforcement which have contributed to this effort."

Two months ago, OPD initiated a pedestrian safety program for children who were heading back to school. Ossining Police Officer Shelly Farrell helped children to realize the importance of looking both ways, obeying crossing guards and other important safety guidelines.

Back in July, Ossining lost beloved resident Jane Shakman. Shakman was hit by a vehicle while riding her bicycle on Chappaqua Road in Briarcliff Manor.