Date: September 8, 2008
Blue Ridge Parkway officials announced the renewal this year of Operation Farthing, a multi-year initiative created to reduce motor vehicle collisions during the peak travel season for the park. Following a five year decline in traffic accidents between 2002 and 2006, accidents increased last year and current figures are showing the potential for another increase for 2008. Analysis of the causes leading to the increase points to drivers not giving full time and attention to the road as the main factor.
Operation Farthing, named in honor of U. S. Park Police Officer Hakim Farthing who was struck and killed by a vehicle on August 10, 2002, is the enforcement part of a multi-faceted initiative designed to reduce the number of accidents through an increase in the level of enforcement by targeting a variety of traffic violations. These increased efforts are designed to raise the awareness level of park visitors as they drive the scenic roadway by reminding them to obey the posted speed limits, wear seatbelts, don’t tailgate, and keep a watchful eye out for wildlife, hikers, cyclists, and others enjoying the park’s scenery and resources. Indicators of those driving while not paying close attention to the road are the same as for those driving while impaired, so Rangers will also be seeking out people operating their vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Motorists on the Parkway should be prepared for increased traffic as well as longer and slower drive times resulting from the cooler weather and peak leaf seasons and are encouraged to practice Parkway etiquette by giving extra space to cyclists and by using the park’s many scenic overlooks to allow other vehicles to safely pass. Drivers are also urged to show extra patience for slower RV and bicycle traffic and extra caution for the park’s many species of wildlife which are often seen along the roadway.
The Blue Ridge Parkway was designed in the 1930’s as a scenic motor road connecting the Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains national parks. The road, which extends for approximately 470 miles, is the most visited unit in the National Park Service and contains numerous overlooks, campgrounds, visitor centers, exhibits, lakes, and hiking trails which provide the visitor an opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse areas surrounding the park.
