Tulsa Police To Crack Down On St. Patrick's Day Drunk Drivers

NewsOn6.com

TULSA, OK -- Tulsa Police will be on the lookout for drivers who have had too much to drink this Saint Patrick's Day. 

Officers say the holiday frequently contributes to an increase in DUI related traffic collisions and arrests.

Last year, the Tulsa Police Department made three arrests before midnight on Saint Patrick's Day and 20 arrests after midnight on the 18th of March.

The Tulsa Police Department will be focusing on Cherry Street, Brookside and the downtown portions of the city, however, officers say this will not stop them from monitoring other areas. Their plan is to reduce collisions and arrest impaired drivers who threaten other drivers and their passengers.

According to Tulsa Police, overtime funding will be provided by the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office.

Arnie's Bar, Dirty's Tavern and McNellie's Public House are hosting downtown Saint Patrick's Day events. Crowds in excess of 5,000 are anticipated to attend.

As a result, First Street between Greenwood Avenue and Elgin Avenue will be closed from 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM. Elgin Avenue between First Street and Second Street will be closed from 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM. Second Street between Detroit Avenue and Elgin Avenue and Elgin Avenue from Second Street to Third Street will be closed from 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM by the Tulsa Police Department and Public Works.

Kilkennys Irish Pub will host a Cherry Street District Saint Patrick's Day event. Crowds in excess of 500 are anticipated to attend. As a result, 15th Street between Quincy Avenue and Rockford Avenue will be closed from 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM.

For the first time, AAA is offering its Tipsy Tow services on Saint Patrick's Day. A free tow for your car and a free ride home for you are available from AAA Oklahoma if you think you've had a bit too much to drink at a party and feel unsafe behind the wheel.

To call for Tipsy Tow, dial (800) AAA-HELP and ask for Tipsy Tow.

3/14/2010  Related Story: AAA To Offer ‘Tipsy Tow' On Saint Patrick's Day