MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
A Division Of The Department of Public Safety
Public Information and Education Division - PO Box 568 - Jefferson City, MO 65102

NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Capt. J. Tim Hull
Q 2411 (573) 526-6115

February 4, 2011

EMPHASIS: Patrol Thanks Public For Assistance During Blizzard

Colonel Ron Replogle, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to thank the public for its assistance during the recent blizzard. Governor Jay Nixon, the Patrol, Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), local law enforcement, and many other agencies urged the public to limit their travel during the hazardous winter storm. Many drivers either stayed off the roadway or adjusted their driving habits accordingly. Unfortunately, one fatality did occur during the storm. However, due to the efforts of Missouri drivers and emergency service agencies, traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities were minimized.

“On behalf of the Patrol, I would like to express our appreciation to the public,” said Col. Replogle. “I would also like to recognize the State Emergency Management Agency, Missouri National Guard, MoDOT, and local law enforcement, firefighters, emergency responders, and public works employees. I’m proud to say each of these departments communicated and worked well together. The coordinated response among them led to the best possible outcome for Missouri’s citizens.”

The colonel also emphasized that Patrol operations continued throughout the blizzard without interruption. Employees worked extended hours to serve and protect the public.

“I am proud of our employees,” said Col. Replogle. “Troopers worked long hours in terrible weather conditions. Our civilian employees went above and beyond to ensure communications and facilities were operating at the level Missouri’s citizens expect. Everyone performed their duties admirably.”

While some roadways have been restored to near normal conditions, many rural roadways are still affected by the snow or ice. The Patrol remains committed to working with the Missouri Department of Transportation and other agencies as efforts continue and progress is made. The Patrol continues to remind motorists to drive cautiously.

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