Summer’s almost over, but Bellevue police say the traffic crackdown will continue

The Bellevue Police Department (BPD) is closing out its “100 Safe Days of Summer” campaign with a weeklong emphasis on speeding, noise, and distracted driving across the city.

BPD Public Information Officer Drew Anderson said the intensive enforcement over the summer months is already showing clear results.

“We have issued more than 49% more speeding citations compared to last year and over 112% more noise citations compared to last year,” Anderson said.

Responding to Bellevue community complaints

Anderson said these patrols are driven in large part by what officers are hearing from residents.

Community members regularly call in complaints about loud, modified exhaust systems. They also often report speeding vehicles on neighborhood streets and major arterials, along with distracted and unsafe driving.

“We’re being proactive because this is an issue that is very top of mind for Bellevue community members,” Anderson said. “People reach out pretty regularly about traffic and noise problems.”

New tools to target loud vehicles

Beginning in September, Bellevue police are adding new technology to support their noise enforcement efforts. Officers will begin using PipeDown devices, which help train and equip them with sound-level meter technology.

The devices will assist officers in identifying vehicles with modified or excessively loud exhaust, more accurately measuring noise levels, and strengthening enforcement against drivers who violate noise laws.

Effort continues beyond summer

While the “100 Safe Days of Summer” is ending, Anderson emphasized that the department’s commitment to safer streets will continue.

He pointed to the Safer Roads Initiative announced in January and Bellevue’s role in the Eastside Safe Streets Task Force, formed in February with neighboring jurisdictions, as part of a sustained, year-round strategy.

“This has been top of mind for us all year, and we’re not going to stop just because summer’s ending,” Anderson said.

Police said drivers should expect ongoing enforcement focused on speeding, noise, and distracted driving as they work to improve safety and quality of life for Bellevue residents.

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