Drivers planning to cruise Highway 6 & 50 this Friday might want to keep their speedometers in check. Local law enforcement is ramping up patrols along the busy stretch between Fruita and Palisade after a steady stream of complaints from frustrated motorists.

Summer travel means more cars, more families, and — unfortunately — more risky behavior behind the wheel. Officials hope a stronger police presence will make drivers think twice before picking up their phones or weaving through traffic.

Complaints Pile Up From Fruita to Palisade

It’s not just one or two angry drivers. Over the past few months, Highway 6 & 50 has become a hotspot for close calls, tailgating, and reckless passing. Some drivers say they’ve had enough.

One local mom said she dreads taking her kids to swim practice. “People cut you off like they don’t even see you,” she said. “It’s stressful.”

Colorado State Patrol says they’ve been listening — and now they’re taking action.

More Eyes, More Stops

On Friday, expect to see marked cars from the Colorado State Patrol, Grand Junction Police Department, and Mesa County Sheriff’s Office.

One trooper summed it up in just one sentence: “We’re here to remind folks this road isn’t the Indy 500.”

Patrols will focus on:

• Speeding drivers
• Unsafe lane changes
• Distracted driving

It’s not about handing out tickets for the fun of it. Officers say they’d rather prevent an accident than write a citation after the fact.

Summer Brings More Cars — And Trouble

Anyone who’s lived here for a while knows Highway 6 & 50 can feel like a racetrack when vacation season hits. Families load up the SUV, teens hit the road for camping trips, and traffic swells.

The more cars, the more chances for something to go sideways.

Officials are clear about what they want to see: eyes on the road, hands on the wheel.

One short line: Texts can wait.

Safety Tips Worth Repeating

Law enforcement keeps it simple. They want drivers to remember a few key things before heading out Friday:

• Put your phone away. A text isn’t worth your life.
• Double check before changing lanes. Blind spots catch people off guard.
• Don’t assume. Just because you don’t see another car doesn’t mean there isn’t one.

If you see someone driving dangerously, give them space and call *CSP or *277. Better safe than sorry.

Highway 6 & 50 Has a History

Ask longtime residents — they’ll tell you this road’s reputation didn’t pop up overnight.

For years, Highway 6 & 50 has been a key connector for drivers avoiding I-70 traffic jams. But with local growth and more tourists, the road now handles far more than it did a decade ago.

It’s not unusual to see sudden slowdowns, farm equipment crossing, and wildlife near the shoulder.

A retired trucker who used to haul peaches through Palisade said, “You gotta respect that stretch of road. It’ll surprise you if you’re not paying attention.”

How Big Is the Problem?

There’s no denying the numbers back up the need for more patrols.

Here’s a quick look:

Summer’s only begun, and complaints are already on pace to top last year. Troopers say enforcement now might keep those stats from getting worse.

A Reminder for Vacationers and Locals

Friday’s extra patrols aren’t about scaring people — they’re about keeping families whole.

A Palisade vineyard owner put it simply: “Slow down, stay alert, and get home safe. That’s all anyone wants.”

So if you’re heading out for a weekend hike or driving the kids to a sleepover, remember there’s likely an officer around the next bend.

Better to get there late than not at all.