(KNZA)--Three Brown County law enforcement agencies have been recognized by AAA Kansas for their efforts in addressing local traffic safety issues.

The Hiawatha Police Department, Horton Police Department and Brown County Sheriff’s Department are among twenty-three law enforcement agencies in Kansas selected for 2015 Community Traffic Safety Awards.

Bob Hamilton, law enforcement liaison for the Kansas Department of Transportation, presented the awards to the local departments Monday during their respective city and county commission meetings.

The Hiawatha Police Department received a Gold Award for the second consecutive year, which is the second highest award presented.  It’s the fourth year the department has received an award.  

The Horton Police Department received a Gold Award, and the Brown County Sheriff’s Department received its third Silver Award.

Hamilton says KDOT works with AAA to identify law enforcement agencies that they feel deserve the award.  He says the award is presented by AAA to encourage communities to address local traffic safety issues in a coordinated and cost-effective way.

The local law enforcement agencies earned points for among other things having a community-based traffic safety committee, participation in the SAFE seat belt usage program, participation in the Click It or Ticket Campaign, and holding DUI saturation patrols.

Hamilton cited proof the local efforts are paying off.  In said teen seat belt usage in Hiawatha has risen from 78 percent to 93 percent, and in Horton from 68 percent to 73 percent.  In addition, he said alcohol arrests in the county have declined over the past three years.