N.Y. State Police Change Color of Troopers' Cruisers in 1950s Homage

New York State Police are changing the color of its patrol cars with “a nod to tradition.”

New patrol vehicles will feature a gray body with gold stripes starting in 2025, a shift from the current fleet’s dark blue and yellow look. A state police spokesperson said the design pays homage to a previous 1950s gray motif and better matches troopers' current uniforms.

“We wear a gray uniform and that gray, people may not be aware of this... (is really) black and white thread that’s woven together,” Technical Sergeant Jack Keller, the Assistant Director of Public Information for New York State Police at Division Headquarters, told WTEN. “That’s to symbolize the neutrality of a New York State trooper.”

According to the Albany TV station, only one NYS Police vehicle currently has the new look as there are no plans to overhaul any cars with the current blue design. New patrol cars will be painted with the updated gray-and-gold design, gradually updating the fleet.

WGRZ reports New York State Police have used dark blue with a gold stripe since the 1980s. The gray vehicles are expected to be easier to see.

Keller told WTEN that the new color will save money, because state police had to pay “to own” the specific shade of blue across all manufacturers, costing $600 to $700 per vehicle.

“This design ensures our vehicles remain highly visible and instantly recognizable to the public. The transition will occur gradually as older vehicles are replaced, balancing tradition, safety, and fiscal responsibility,” a statement said. “Our patrol cars are more than just vehicles—they are a symbol of honor, integrity, and service."

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