STATEHOUSE (Oct. 20 , 2009) - Sen. Allen Paul (R-Richmond) will be awarded the Distinguished Service Award by Earlham College this Friday. The school will honor Paul for his outstanding service to the school, community, and Indiana.

"Sen. Paul exemplifies the goals and missions of the college," said Senior Director of Relations Gail Clark.  "Earlham and the students are grateful for his efforts to help increase student safety with the installation of a signal light at the campus' main entrance."

For several years, Earlham College urged the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) and state lawmakers to place a stop light on National Road and U.S. 40 - the college's main entrance. 

"Three students have been killed trying to cross the road," Vice President for Community Relations Avis Stewart said. "A student was struck every year from 2006 through 2008 highlighting the need for the traffic signal." 

Paul, understanding the need to increase student and driver safety, initiated several key meetings between INDOT, the Governor's Office and state legislators.

"Research showed this was a dangerous crossing point for both drivers and students," Paul said. "Each side came together and collectively agreed placing a traffic signal at that location would be beneficial for all parties involved."

INDOT estimates the signal will be installed in 2011 after the completion of the U.S. 40 expansion project.

Paul will accept the award on Oct. 24, 2009 at the Goddard Auditorium.

Senator Paul represents Senate District 27, which includes Jay, Randolph and Wayne Counties.

-30-

« Back to News Release List

Link to this event: