WAYNE AND HENRY COUNTIES, Ind. (WISH) — A targeted traffic enforcement operation along Interstate 70 in Wayne and Henry counties led to a sharp reduction in crashes within a construction zone, according to Indiana State Police.

Troopers with the ISP Pendleton District and the Commercial Motor Vehicle Division conducted “Operation Space Cadet,” focusing primarily on commercial motor vehicles and unsafe following distances among semi-trucks traveling through the construction zone.

During the operation, troopers conducted 228 traffic stops, resulting in 159 citations, 132 warnings, 53 commercial motor vehicle violations and 16 arrests.

ISP said the enforcement effort coincided with a significant reduction in crashes within the construction zone.

Before the operation, the area averaged about eight crashes per week, including three crashes involving injuries. Those crashes frequently resulted in major traffic closures.

During Operation Space Cadet, there were three crashes in total, with no personal-injury crashes, according to ISP.

State police said the results demonstrate the potential impact targeted traffic enforcement and voluntary compliance can have on roadway safety.

Motorists traveling through construction zones are reminded to slow down, avoid distractions, maintain a safe following distance and be prepared for sudden changes in traffic conditions.