Woodstock Police Will Serve as Designated Drivers on New Year's Eve

For the sixth year in a row, the Woodstock Police Department will offer its Operation Safe Ride initiative for those who may indulge a little too much in New Year’s Eve festivities.

On Wednesday, Dec. 31, the agency will provide free rides home to patrons at local bars “who may be impaired or feel it is unsafe to drive,” the agency said in its press release.

Any resident who needs a ride must be at an establishment within the Woodstock city limits, must live a reasonable distance in Woodstock and must not have any money to call a taxi.

Neese Towing has signed on again this year to offer to tow vehicles to residents’ homes free of charge.

Now in its sixth year of operating, the initiative has provided over 300 rides home and has saved uncountable lives. The Department utilizes its 15 passenger van and two police officers to drive people home.

“The main reason for this operation is to ensure that residents can celebrate the holiday, but not endanger the lives of others by driving impaired” said Sgt. Shane Collie, special operations group supervisor. “We have fun interacting with all of the residents and meeting new people. It is a way for us to get out in the community.”

Anyone interested in a ride home on New Year’s Eve can make prior arrangements by calling 678-446-4238 anytime or during the evening hours of New Year’s Eve.

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