Somerville Police Traffic Unit
The Traffic Unit is part of the Uniformed Patrol Division and is responsible for traffic enforcement, crash investigation, traffic safety initiatives, and related regulatory oversight throughout the City of Somerville.
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Staffing The unit includes:
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Equipment
The Traffic Unit utilizes:
- 7 Harley-Davidson motorcycles
- 3 specially equipped traffic vehicles
- 2 speed-monitoring trailers
Hackney Responsibilities
The unit oversees the City’s Hackney program, including:
Testing and licensing new and existing taxi drivers
Annual and random inspections of licensed taxi cabs
Conducting background checks and vehicle inspections
Mission and Responsibilities
The Traffic Unit works to improve roadway safety and traffic flow for residents and visitors through:
- High-visibility traffic enforcement
- Crash investigation and reconstruction
- Hit-and-run investigations
- Public safety and traffic complaint response
- Funeral escorts and dignitary escorts
- Traffic control for special events and planned operations
- Enforcement of traffic-related laws, regulations, and local ordinances
- Oversight related to police details and contracted towing operations
Motor Unit
The Traffic Unit includes a 7-motorcycle Motor Unit staffed by approximately 15 currently certified motor officers. The Motor Unit supports high-visibility traffic enforcement, escorts, special events, and other traffic safety operations throughout the city.
Goal
The primary goal of the Traffic Unit is to reduce crashes, prevent injuries, and improve safety for all roadway users, including motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, while supporting the City’s Vision Zero initiative.