2025 Recipients
Highway 169 Task Force
After suffering 10 fatal crashes in their community since June 2019, traffic safety stakeholders came together to form the Itasca County Hwy. 169 Task Force. The group has representation from all the “E’s,” including the Itasca County Safe Roads Coalition, Itasca County Sheriff’s Department, Minnesota State Patrol District 3100, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) District 1. Led by Safe Roads Coalition Coordinator Shane Troumbly and Chief Deputy Christopher Peterson of the Sheriff’s Office, the Task Force has played a critical role in saving lives.
One major outcome of the collaboration is the 169 Safe Road Zone Campaign, through which the Sheriff’s Office and State Patrol conducted more than 5,000 stops. Campaign cards with safety messages were also distributed during stops. In addition, the Task Force conducted a road safety audit through MnDOT, recommending actions to improve safety along the corridor for all users. All partner organizations have committed to continuing the campaign, building on the progress already made.
Past Recipients
2023
- Renville County Public Health, Renville County Sheriff’s Office, and the Minnesota State Patrol
2022
- Richfield Police Department
2021
- Minnesota Emergency Nurses Association Minnesota State Council
2020
- American Student Transportation
2018
- Project Bright Light, Bemidji Area Schools
2017
- KARE 11 #eyesUP Campaign
2016
- Motorcycle Dial-A-Ride
2015
- Diamond Surface Inc.
2014
- AT&T Minnesota