FHP, CCSO and FDOT partner in ELEE program through March 2025 to provide safer roads in Citrus County

Citrus County Sheriff's Office (CCSO)

Citrus County, Florida - The Florida Highway Patrol Troop C and the Citrus County Sheriff's Office have partnered with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District Seven in an Enhanced Law Enforcement Engagement (ELEE) program, from July 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025. This program will expand first responder presence on state roadways that have high crash rates, to increase public awareness of the importance of safe driving.

“As we begin the third year of the ELEE program, Florida Troopers are proud to collaborate with the FDOT and our local law enforcement partners to create a safer Florida by reducing crashes on Bay Area roadways through high visibility and enhanced traffic enforcement,” said Major Rick Benton, Commander, Florida Highway Patrol Troop C.

"Our deputies are committed to rigorous traffic enforcement and continuously educating motorists about the dangers of unsafe driving habits," said Citrus County Sheriff Mike Prendergast. "They are focusing their efforts on significantly reducing deadly crashes and enhancing the safety of our roadways, Through our partnership with FDOT District Seven and the implementation of the ELEE program, we aim not only to enforce the law but also to cultivate safe driving practices within the community."

Efforts will focus on specific areas of the State Highway Strategic Safety Plan (SHSSP). Areas of focus include:
• Aggressive, and Distracted Driving
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
• Intersection Violations
• Lane Departure
• Move Over violations (not moving ove or slowing
• Speeding
• Work Zone violations

"FDOT District Seven is committed to making our roads safer through partnerships with local first responders," said FDOT District Seven Safety Engineer Emmeth Duran, P.E. "Through this program, we are working to reach FDOT's target of zero fatal crashes and serious injuries."

The ELEE pilot program was launched in 2022 by FDOT District Seven to expand its efforts to improve traffic safety. The purpose of the ELEE program is to partner with local first responder agencies to reduce crashes and injuries on the state roads and federal highways FDOT District Seven manages.