BCAT News

The Burlington Police Department has received a Gold Award for Community Traffic Safety from the American Automobile Association (AAA) and Lieutenant Jerry McDonough has been named as AAA’s Traffic Hero, as a result of traffic safety initiatives.  BPD was recognized for its community education initiatives regarding traffic safety services, such as car seat installations and checks, collaboration with the town’s Staff Traffic Advisory Committee, and increased patrols.

Lieutenant Jerry McDonough was named Traffic Safety Hero based on his involvement with the Department’s Traffic Safety Division, where he served as supervisor for many years before his promotion to Lieutenant. Through his time as Traffic Safety Division Supervisor, Lt. McDonough introduced a variety of initiatives, including developing a high visibility approach to ensuring the rules of the road were being adhered to and making sure the Department had input on roadway and parking designs in town, to help keep the residents of Burlington safe while on the road. Lt. McDonough previously applied for and secured funding for the Department through the Massachusetts Roadway Safety Grant, which allowed Burlington Police to purchase new traffic equipment and increase traffic enforcement. The traffic safety division is now overseen by Sgt. Patrick Abaskharoun.

The AAA Northeast Community Traffic Safety Awards Program recognizes communities across the Northeast for their efforts to help improve local traffic safety for road users. Awards are given to communities that encourage safe driving including reduced speeding, safer roads, and safer cars to protect residents and community members. AAA presents awards based on specific application criteria and recognizes communities who have met the criteria with Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum.