NY Thruway Red Ribbon Campaign Kicks Off Dec. 26

The New York State Thruway Authority, in collaboration with Mothers Against Drunk Driving and New York State Police Troop T, kicks off its 28th Annual Red Ribbon Campaign today.

Through the campaign, which runs till Dec. 31, Thruway Authority toll collectors will handout red ribbons at select toll facilities.

In addition, the Thruway Authority will also be posting MADD’s reminder to “Drive Safely, Stay Sober” on message boards throughout the Thruway system.

The ribbons will be distributed to motorists at the following Thruway locations: plaza 15 (Woodbury); plaza 17 (Newburgh); plaza 24 (Albany); plaza B3 (Canaan, Mass Pike); plaza 34A (Syracuse, I-481); plaza 36 (Watertown, Binghamton); plaza 39 (Syracuse, I-690); plaza 46 (Rochester, Corning); and plaza 55 (Lackawanna).

Ribbons will also be available at many Thruway Service Areas.

“The New York State Thruway is one of America’s safest highways, and the Red Ribbon Campaign is another example of our focus on safety for all Thruway customers,” said New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Thomas J. Madison. “We are proud to partner with MADD for this annual campaign in efforts to encourage motorists everywhere to practice safe driving behaviors and avoid driving under the influence not only during the holiday season, but all year round.”

The red ribbon campaign is MADD’s longest running and most visible public awareness project. The foot-long red ribbons, a symbol chosen by MADD in 1986, are meant to be displayed on motorists’ vehicles to raise public awareness regarding the dangers of impaired driving as well as to encourage all motorists to take the pledge of driving safe, sober and buckled up at all times.

“To honor lives lost and those injured as a result of impaired driving, we should do all that we can to save other families from enduring this pain,” said Executive Director of MADD New York State Richard Mallow. “MADD is pleased to have the continued support of the Thruway Authority and recommends planning ahead for a safe way home – designating a non-drinking driver before drinking begins, hosting parties responsibly, and providing alternate transportation or accommodations for those who have been drinking.”

Nationwide Insurance is the National Presenting Sponsor for MADD’s red ribbon campaign.

For more information about MADD, please see www.madd.org.