***Note: Media members who are interested in covering this event are asked to RSVP with Matthew Reid at 603-276-9216 or matt@jgpr.net by 8 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 11.***
PROVIDENCE — The Rhode Island Police Chiefs’ Association reports that RIPCA officials will be joined by statewide highway stakeholders for a special event tomorrow that will include a ‘Blessing of the Road’ by RIPCA’s official chaplain.
WHEN:
Thursday, Feb. 11, starting at 10 a.m.
WHERE:
Doric Park, 481 Doric Ave., Cranston, R.I.
WHO:
- Sidney Wordell, RIPCA Executive Director
- Chief Richard Ramsay, RIPCA President
- Peter Alviti, Jr., Rhode Island Department of Transportation Director
- Colonel James M. Manni, Rhode Island State Police
- Sean Cassidy, Executive Director, MADD-RI
- Fr. Joseph Escobar, RIPCA Chaplain, who will be performing the blessing
WHAT:
According to preliminary data from the Rhode Island Department of Transportation, there were 73 roadway fatalities in the state in 2020, which is up from 57 the year before and the highest yearly total since 2017.
RIPCA and partnering highway safety stakeholders will be speaking Thursday to bring awareness to the various roadway safety efforts being coordinated around the state. While there have already been numerous highway fatalities in 2021, the event is meant to provide hope as RIPCA Chaplain Fr. Joseph Escobar will perform a blessing to state roadways for a safer year ahead for drivers and first responders.
The event will continue to emphasize the importance RIPCA places on promoting safe/sober driving, limiting distracted driving and reinforcing that seat belts save lives.
RIPCA officials and others in attendance will take questions from the media following the event.
In keeping with the latest COVID-19 safety guidelines, anyone attending the event will be required to wear a face covering and practice social distancing.
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