City of Worcester, MA

WORCESTER, Mass. – The Worcester Police Department (WPD) announced Friday that it will begin a new six-month pilot program to test the use of high visibility blue lights on Sunday, Oct. 19.

Starting Sunday as of 7 a.m., residents will notice all marked police cars equipped with a steady blue cruise light system. Officers will operate these lights during routine patrols to increase visibility, reduce crime and traffic violations, and boost public awareness.

“Our hope is that this program will help reduce the risk of collisions and deter unsafe driving habits,” said Police Chief Paul Saucier. “The blue lights show drivers that our officers are out there and are a reminder to operate lawfully. I believe this could be an effective initiative for us to enhance visibility and take a more proactive stance on traffic calming measures.”

“I have often said a city’s primary responsibility to its residents is public health and safety. Part of that responsibility is constantly looking for best practices when it comes to the safety of both our police officers and the public, which Chief Saucier has done,” City Manager Eric D. Batista said. “This program is part of a wholistic approach we have taken toward traffic and public safety that has included adopting a 25-mile-per-hour speed limit, installing speed humps, park-and-walk initiatives, and more as we pursue all avenues to increase wellbeing for our officers, pedestrians, drivers, and the community at large.”

Drivers should note that they do not have to pull over when the steady blue lights are on. Drivers should only pull over for flashing lights and sirens.

This pilot program will allow WPD and the City of Worcester to evaluate its impact and gather feedback before considering long-term implementation.