New fleet of APD patrol cars getting a makeover with new design

ATLANTA — When you see a police car on the street, it may look a little different. On Wednesday, the department unveiled a new design for its patrol cars.

Channel 2′s Steve Gehlbach was at a ceremony as the first two patrol cars with the new design were put into circulation on Wednesday morning. Two officers who live in the city will take them home and start patrolling the streets.

“When we look at the number one reason officers want to stay at the Atlanta Police Department, a take home car is at the top of list,” APD Chief Darin Schierbaum said.

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In buying new patrol cars, APD is upgrading its aging fleet. They say that with the new cars that will be featured on every shift, it’s time to give them a new look.

For the last 20 years, the vehicles have been blue, but will now be black with bright blue and red stripes.

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Groups of students from Savannah College of Arts and Design were given the challenge to come up with options for the new design. Wednesday marked the first time the winning team got to see their design come to life.

“I’m completely blown away. It’s amazing,” SCAD senior Candance Stewart said.

Stewart says the design uses the symbol of the phoenix and wings with the six stripes representing each of the city’s zones.

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Gehlbach learned the first 40 Ford Explorers are ready and will be on the streets soon.

Mayor Andre Dickens and Chief Schierbaum say the investment is worth it to keep officers and help deter crime.

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