The Rapid City Police Department says more officers will be on the streets not just on New Year's Eve, but throughout the weekend. The emphasis will be on identifying and apprehending drunk drivers. But the department says it is also preparing for the large crowds and heavy traffic usually associated with New Year celebrations.

    Dan Rud says, "There's an expectation that people will go out celebrating in any number of ways and we're staffing up and being prepared for extra traffic and extra crowds in bars and extra crowds throughout various businesses around town."

     The South Dakota Highway Patrol is also planning for increased manpower and an increased presence on the roads over the next four days.Lieutenant David Berkley says the Highway Patrol MAY use sobriety checkpoints as part of its New Year enforcement efforts.But it will certainly be looking for impaired drivers.

     David Berkley says, "We'll have as many people out there as possible covering the roads, both day and night shift to make sure we have full coverage, as much as possible out there on the highways."

     The Rapid City Police Department is urging all Rapid City residents and anyone coming to Rapid City to avoid drinking and driving. And if they do drink, appoint a designated driver. It also reminds everyone to wear a seatbelt not just during the coming weekend, but all year long.

Al Van Zee