Local Police Departments Recognized for Community Outreach

by Jonathan Weaver

During the past few months, AAA has recognized dozens of local police departments for their community traffic safety efforts, and a handful of Armstrong County departments have routinely made the list.

Of the 50 highest-ranking awards given, Ford City Borough Police received a community safety award for the 13th consecutive year – and for the past few years, have always received Platinum awards as a “commendable leader” in their safety efforts and enforcement activities geared toward making communities safer.

During his most-recent police report, Ford City Borough Police Chief Michael Greenlee said officers responded to more than 250 calls in the month of November and made a total of more than 360 arrests.

Most of Ford City Police’s occurrences during the month of November were also found to be happening between 9AM and 3PM. Accidents and drug paraphernalia cases led the incident types.

In November, Ford City Borough received a $3,000 donation from the Ford City Eagles for new stun tasers.

Pennsylvania State Police’s Troop D – Butler barracks (which has a station in East Franklin Township) also was recognized with a Platinum award.

33 additional departments that excelled in making their communities safer were honored with Gold, Silver, or Bronze awards.

For another consecutive year, Kittanning Borough Police was recognized as a silver award winner.

In November, Borough Police Chief Bruce Mathews said the full-time police force responded to more than 300 calls. One of the community-minded public safety initiatives includes free safety checks when homeowners are out of town.

Chief Mathews said residents “only have to answer a few simple questions”

Free local parking is also available in the downtown business district until Monday, Jan. 2 after a unanimous approval from Kittanning Borough Council.

“We are honored to recognize these local departments for their efforts in the Community Traffic Safety Program,” said J.J. Miller, AAA East Central Safety Advisor. “Each organization has gone above and beyond the call of duty to make their community a safer place for motorists and residents.”

The departments were among hundreds nationwide that participated in the Community Traffic Safety Program recognized by AAA East Central.

Nearly 20 police departments were also recognized in the state of West Virginia.

AAA East Central conducts a variety of free highway safety programs throughout Western Pennsylvania focusing on all age groups. The Club also partners with law enforcement and safety agencies on initiatives to improve the safety of the community and local highways.

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