DALLAS, Texas - The Dallas Police Department announced it will assume responsibility for freeway traffic enforcement and crash investigations within the city after Dallas County notified the department that it is terminating its current interlocal agreement.
According to Dallas police, the department received certified notice from Dallas County that the agreement governing the Dallas County Highway Traffic Program will end effective Aug. 28, 2026.
The agreement, which began on Oct. 1, 2025, provided approximately $1.2 million in funding for the Dallas County Sheriff's Office to handle freeway traffic enforcement and crash response services within the City of Dallas.
Dallas Police Expanding Traffic Unit
Dallas police said the department has been preparing for the transition for several months as part of broader efforts to improve operational efficiency, maximize available resources and enhance public safety.
Beginning in August, the department will expand its Traffic Unit to take over:
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Freeway traffic enforcement
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High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane enforcement
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Traffic crash investigations on Dallas freeways
Department officials said the change is expected to improve response times, ensure crashes are investigated by dedicated traffic investigators, strengthen enforcement of HOV lane regulations, and reduce the need for patrol officers to leave emergency calls to respond to freeway incidents.
Police said keeping patrol officers available for emergency calls while Traffic Unit personnel handle freeway crashes will improve overall public safety and service to residents.
Chief Says Change Will Improve Service
"This transition reflects the way we are continuously evaluating how we deploy our resources to best serve the people of Dallas," Police Chief Daniel Comeaux said in a statement.
"Expanding our Traffic Unit allows us to provide faster, more specialized response to traffic incidents, assume responsibility for HOV lane enforcement, and keep patrol officers focused on responding to calls for service. It's an investment in both public safety and operational efficiency that ultimately enhances the level of service our community expects and deserves."
The Dallas Police Department said it appreciates its partnership with the Dallas County Sheriff's Office and remains committed to working with regional law enforcement agencies while continuing to provide public safety services throughout the city.
