Drivers pulled over on many of Dallas’ major highways may soon see a different badge at their window.
Dallas police are preparing to take over traffic enforcement and crash investigations on freeways long patrolled by Dallas County sheriff’s deputies or state troopers. The department expanded its traffic unit this month to cover every freeway within the city, including roads operated by the North Texas Tollway Authority.
The shift comes as two patrol deals end days apart. The county’s arrangement with the city to patrol certain Dallas highways ends Friday, while the Texas Department of Public Safety’s agreement to patrol NTTA roads expires Monday.
The changes will give Dallas police a larger role on the city’s highways after years of relying largely on other agencies.
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DPD is expanding its Traffic Unit as a 17-year partnership with the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office ends Aug. 28.