The Traffic and Safety unit is part of the Uniformed Patrol Division. It is comprised of the Patrol Commander, Officer in Charge, and Patrol officers assigned to the unit. The Traffic Unit operates marked and unmarked cruisers, one large message board trailer, three medium sized multipurpose speed/message trailers and one speed monitoring trailer.
The Traffic and Safety unit also actively participates in the Haverhill Traffic and Safety Committee. The unit oversees and deploys specialized equipment to conduct traffic counts and studies as requested. This includes speed signboards and traffic counter devices. Other duties include reviewing traffic markings, lights, signs and reviewing ordinances related to them. The unit also oversees and monitors parking complaints and enforcement.
The mission of the Traffic Unit is to promote expeditious traffic flow that enhances traffic safety for all residents of, and visitors to, the City of Haverhill through education, enforcement and investigation. Although enforcement is a major function of the Traffic Unit, other functions include enforcing non-traffic related laws; collision prevention and investigation; crash reconstruction, impaired driver enforcement, escorts for large funeral processions and dignitary protection; Traffic control at civic functions, responding to citizen complaints, enforcing traffic and safety related City ordinances, towing and oversight of city contracted tow company; Taxi Cab oversight including all licensing and background checks of drivers and inspections of all taxi vehicles. Livery and Limousine oversight including background checks of drivers and inspections of livery and limousine vehicles. The unit also monitors used car dealerships and conducts inspections and compliance checks of these establishments. The traffic unit also reviews and process handicap sign requests. The traffic unit officers conduct weekly car seat checkpoints and assist and educate the public with the safe installation of child car seats. The traffic unit assists the School Department with training, education, and safety checks of crossing guards and school bus drivers. They also assist the local driving schools with student driver education.
Traffic and Safety officers have received a variety of specialized training which includes motorcycle operation, radar and lidar speed measurement certification, crash investigation, crash reconstruction, Drug Recognition Expert and advanced roadside impaired driver education, national certified child passenger safety technician and basic commercial vehicle and truck enforcement. It is our mission to make the roadways in the City of Haverhill safe for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians.