| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 8672 | 2012-04-12 | Troop L | Traffic Advisory for Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival |
| TROOP L NEWS RELEASE April 12th, 2012 Traffic Advisory for Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival The annual Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival, which will take place this weekend April 13th through April 15th, is expected to bring over 300,000 visitors to the downtown Ponchatoula area. This increased traffic volume quickly overloads the surrounding interstate system causing dangerous backups from heavily congested off ramps and forcing intermittent closures of interstate exits. In an effort to improve the flow of traffic and ensure that everyone has a safe festival weekend, Troop L urges motorists to follow the following alternate route advisories when entering and leaving the Ponchatoula area. From Baton Rouge: Exit Interstate 12 Eastbound at Pumpkin Center exit #35, proceed south to LA 22, then continue east on LA 22 into Ponchatoula. From Covington / Slidell: Exit Interstate 12 Westbound at LA 445 exit #47, proceed south to LA 22, then continue west on LA 22 into Ponchatoula. From Mandeville: Take LA 22 west into Ponchatoula avoiding Interstate 12. From New Orleans area: Exit Interstate 55 Northbound at Manchac exit #15, proceed north on U.S. 51 into Ponchatoula. Throughout the festival weekend, Louisiana State Police will be working in conjunction with local law enforcement agencies to get impaired drivers off of the roads and remind motorists that Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving. Troopers will be focusing on motorists not wearing seat belts, unrestrained children in vehicles, and any aggressive driving behaviors such as speeding, following too close, and especially driving while intoxicated. Following these guidelines, motorists can enjoy festival activities without jeopardizing their life and the lives of others who may be on the road:
While troopers will remain vigilant throughout the Ponchatoula and Troop L region, responsible decisions, behavior, and precautionary measures will ensure a safe and enjoyable festival experience for everyone. | |||
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