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W.Va. Courtesy Patrol chief urges 24/7 service
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) -- On the opening day of the year's busiest travel season, the West Virginia Courtesy Patrol is urging lawmakers to reinstate 24-hour service.
Director Jennifer J. Douglas said Monday that an August telephone survey of 150 West Virginians showed more than 75 percent of respondents supported the idea.
Lawmakers eliminated the roadside assistance program's 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. shift in 2005, citing high gas costs and other budget needs at the state Division of Highways.
Since its inception in November 1998, the Courtesy Patrol has assisted nearly 231,000 motorists. It also has provided jobs to nearly 2,000 people receiving public assistance.
Douglas urged legislators to recognize the program's value and invest in its future.
