City Launches ‘Speeding Has A Name’ Campaign to Slow Speeding Drivers

April 30, 2021

Today, City of Albuquerque leadership launched the Speeding Has A Name educational campaign to slow speeding drivers. Speeding Has A Name will be featured in television and radio PSA’s, on billboards targeting high accident areas, buses, social media, yard signs, and bumper stickers. Speeding has been a serious issue throughout the City that puts lives in danger. City leaders are hoping that putting a name and face to the consequences of dangerous driving will lead to a reduction in speeding and street racing.

“Speeding is not a victimless crime. Families who have lost loved ones know that too well, and it’s time everyone steps up and slows down,” said Mayor Keller. “It’s why City Council, APD, and our office are coming together with new targeted enforcement strategies and this citywide education campaign.”

Mayor Tim Keller joined City Councilor Klarissa Peña, who has led the effort behind Speeding Has A Name, and City Council President Cynthia Borrego, City Councilors Lan Sena and Isaac Benton, Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina, and Rosa Rivera and family members of Erika Chavez.

“I am excited for the educational campaign and would like to thank the small working group of Councilors: Councilor Bassan, Councilor Sena, & Councilor Benton, who have been working on this project together,” said Councilor Peña. “I’d also like to thank the rest of the City Councilors who contributed financially to this campaign.”

The campaign features a photo of Erika Chavez, who was killed in a vehicle accident with a speeding driver in September 2020. Ms. Chavez’s family approached Councilor Peña about using Erika’s name and photo as a warning to speeding drivers that they’re putting a mother, daughter, sister, and friend’s life at risk with their dangerous driving. At today’s press conference, Erika’s son Erik, spoke with her aunt Rosa Rivera about the grief their family continues to go through, due to reckless driving.

“We cannot continue to allow drivers in Albuquerque to travel so dangerously on our roadways,” said Chief Harold Medina. “APD has been working for years to combat speeding and racing in neighborhoods all across Albuquerque, but with a citywide effort, I believe we can really make an impact and change the driving culture.”

Yard signs and bumper stickers will be available at APD Substations.

The Speeding Has A Name campaign will cost $51,000 with funding provided by City Councilor Discretionary Funding.