(File photo by JEFFREY HASTINGS) A 2021 state police traffic-enforcement operation targeting speeding and aggressive driving on I-95 is similar to the new Nashua initiative, Operation Commuter Shield, taking place this month throughout the city.

NASHUA — If it seems like more and more drivers are whizzing past you on the Everett Turnpike or coming up behind you and riding your tail on main thoroughfares like Concord, Amherst, and East and West Hollis streets, it’s not your imagination.

And it probably wouldn’t surprise you to learn that Nashua police, as part of a new safety initiative in partnership with State Police and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, clocked roughly 80 vehicles going 75 mph or more on the Everett Turnpike within five hours Tuesday morning.

The entire segment of the turnpike in Nashua has a 55 mph speed limit, due to the numerous exits, on-ramps and lane drops fairly close to one another on both the northbound and southbound sides.

According to police, Tuesday’s debut of the initiative, named Operation Commuter Shield, recorded 147 motor vehicle stops on the turnpike, more than half of which were traveling at or over 75 mph.

In addition, three drivers were arrested for driving-related offenses, police said.

Operation Commuter Shield, which is taking place throughout October, was created in response to multiple complaints local police have received from local residents regarding “excessive speeding, aggressive driving, and other motor vehicle infractions,” police said.

Police didn’t say how frequently the team of officers will conduct the operation, but they did say it will take place “during all hours of the day and night.”

Anyone with questions or concerns, or who may know of a particular street or area where speeding or aggressive driving is prevalent, can contact police headquarters at 594-3500.

Dean Shalhoup may be reached at 594-1256 or dshalhoup@nashuatelegraph.com.