CT*DOT Takes Delivery Of New "CHAMP" Vehicles

[x635 4,066]

CT*DOT has taken delivery of several new patrol vehicles for their C.H.A.M.P. division (Connecticut Motorist Assistance Program) It operates on I-95 from the NYS border to Branford, CT and other select roadways in CT.

It's similar to our H.E.L.P. program in NY, with a few exceptions. The empoyees are state employees, and their scope of practice is much larger. Also, the trucks, at least I feel, are better equiped. They use a Freightliner chasis which I feel is better for acceleration and braking, as well as increased visibilty for the driver. (not good for the Saw Mill and other parkways, though, I guess) They also carry more cones and equipment, such as a mounted utility crane and crash absorber.

Their scope is also much larger...they can assist in other ways besides helping motorists. They help with drainage issues, damaged guardrails, highway debris, roadkill, and also can provide scene illumination.

This program's been in effect for a while, and the new trucks are starting to go into service.

For more on the program, click here: http://www.ct.gov/dot/cwp/view.asp?A=2094&Q=259404

Hope to have better shots soon.

[10-Buff-4 0]

Nice shots Seth. I had heard that CT DOT was starting this up. Makes sense that they would do I-95, do you know if they're doing I-84 too? I feel better about traveling now. I mean, traveling that stretches wasn't bad, but, with these guys patrolling the roads, I feel even better.

-Joe DA BUFF

[TL2L31 8]

Nice shots Seth. I had heard that CT DOT was starting this up. Makes sense that they would do I-95, do you know if they're doing I-84 too? I feel better about traveling now. I mean, traveling that stretches wasn't bad, but, with these guys patrolling the roads, I feel even better.

-Joe DA BUFF

I have seen them on I-95 for years. Are these new replacement trucks?

[jcoppola 52]

I just wanted to add that I have worked many, many accidents and incidents with these guys on I-95 over the years and they are all very helpful and cooperative with FD and PD. They can't do enough to help! Glad to see they are getting new rides.

Happy New Year!

JVC

[x635 4,066]

I have seen them on I-95 for years. Are these new replacement trucks?

From what I understand via http://www.EMTBravoNewEngland.com, they are replacement vehicles, as well as vehicles to expand the coverage in exisiting patrol areas.

[Guest BFD196]

They've had this program for years now, I see them patrolling the highways all the time when I go back and forth to work. I've also seen them assisting motorists, protecting accident scenes, and parked closing exit ramps. It must take a burden off the state police too, send one of these guys out to help change a tire and you get the person on the way without sending an officer, and calling a hook, etc.

[x635 4,066]

Quick question I forgot to ask, what frequency do these patrols operate on? Is it on the CSP trunked system?

[IzzyEng4 427]

Quick question I forgot to ask, what frequency do these patrols operate on? Is it on the CSP trunked system?

No, they area not on the CSP trunk system. The operate on the CT DOT frequencies and are dispatched out of Bridgeport DOT HQ at Troop G for the 1-95 area. That is how they were dispatched when I left the state PD dispatch in May.

[trauma74 111]

What is that on the back of the truck?

[x635 4,066]

What is that on the back of the truck?

It's an impact absorbtion device, similar to those found on the back of DOT trucks. When the truck blocks the work zone, the device is lowered to a horizontal angle, where it can absorb the impact of a collision if need be.