APD receives 54 new police cars

ALBANY — Albany Police Department officers received keys to the department’s new fleet of automobiles approved by the Albany City Commission in March. The vehicles are part of an effort to replace older vehicles and help reduce maintenance costs.

Fifty-four new 2018 Ford Police Interceptors were purchases for the department, and the first officers granted keys to the cars received them Tuesday at the city’s new fleet maintenance facility located at 1312 Blaylock St. The vehicles have a new design with a black exterior and a new graphic element created by interim Downtown Manager Jacquelyn Teemer that incorporates the city of Albany’s logo. The insides of the vehicles are designed to be more comfortable for officers, with additional space based on recommendations.

Forty-one of the 54 new vehicles will go to the Uniform Bureau. Fleet Management will inspect each car before it’s released.

“I am excited about the new look,” APD Cpl. Demetrious Kendrick said. “I know it’s going to be great for the department, and I can’t wait for the community to see the new vehicles.”

“This change is part of the new branding for the Albany Police Department,” Chief Michael Persley said. “It is just one of many initiatives I want to implement to increase the morale of the officers and to make the community proud of their department.”

Sunbelt Ford of Albany, Matrix in Lee County and Albany Communications were all part of the buying process and the new look of the cars. Turner Job Corps students helped strip the old cars.