‘Safe Start to Summer' Road Safety Campaign Returns

Published on June 26, 2026

Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger Announces Return of ‘Safe Start to Summer’ Road Safety Campaign

KINGSTON, NY - Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger today announced the return of the annual “Safe Start to Summer” road safety campaign, launched in partnership with Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa in 2024 to promote safe driving as the school year ends and summer travel increases. The campaign brings together County and local law enforcement agencies to reduce speeding, aggressive driving, distracted driving, and other dangerous behaviors on Ulster County roadways.

This year’s campaign comes as Ulster County expands its commitment to traffic safety with the addition of a full‑time Traffic Safety Officer within the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Kyle Frano, a 20‑year veteran of the Sheriff’s Office and K‑9 Unit Trainer, now leads the new Traffic Safety Unit, spearheading the County’s traffic enforcement efforts. His work includes evaluating high‑volume and high‑complaint roadways, deploying speed trailers, analyzing traffic data, and coordinating targeted enforcement.
The County is also continuing its emphasis on public education. Earlier this month, the Ulster County Traffic Safety Board and the New York Bicycling Coalition (NYBC) hosted a public forum on e‑bike laws and safety, providing residents with clear information on legal requirements, safe operation, and emerging regulations. Additional educational programming will continue throughout the year.

“Through our Safe Start campaign, we’re working to build a culture of vigilance, mindfulness, and respect on our roadways for every road user. With the school year ending and communities welcoming more outdoor activity and summer visitors, education and enforcement are the key to helping keep people safe,” said County Executive Jen Metzger. “I’m grateful to Sheriff Juan Figueroa, the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, our local police departments, the Traffic Safety Board, and all our partners for their commitment to keeping residents and visitors safe.”

“For me, traffic safety is about education as much as enforcement,” said Deputy Kyle Frano, lead Deputy of the Traffic Safety Unit. “Not everyone needs a ticket — often, people respond better when they understand the risks and how their actions affect others. Being aware of your surroundings isn’t just about protecting yourself; it’s about protecting the family in the car next to you, the kid on a bicycle, or someone trying to cross the street. We see far too many serious crashes that could have been prevented with a little more care.”

Launched in 2024 in response to a series of tragic motor vehicle crashes, Safe Start to Summer focuses on reducing preventable collisions and encouraging safer driving habits. The campaign emphasizes shared responsibility among drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Participating agencies include the Ulster County Executive’s Office, Ulster County Traffic Safety Board, the Office of the Sheriff, and local law enforcement partners. Enforcement efforts will continue throughout the summer, with particular attention to high‑risk corridors such as Route 28 in Kingston, where crash rates and speeding violations remain elevated due to heavy seasonal traffic.

Residents can expect to see increased patrols, targeted enforcement, and continued public education efforts aimed at reducing dangerous driving behaviors and improving roadway safety for all.