10/10/2026
🚔 CONGRATULATIONS to our Traffic Services Unit on receiving the Excellence Award in Community Support from the Police Officers Association of Los Angeles County! 🏆
During the devastating 2025 Palisades Fire, the Santa Monica Police Department’s Traffic Services Unit went above and beyond the call of duty, demonstrating extraordinary leadership, courage, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to public safety.
Before the fire, the unit proactively developed Santa Monica’s Brush Fire Evacuation Plan. During the emergency, the unit implemented critical traffic closures along Pacific Coast Highway, the California Incline, Moomat Ahiko Way, and the I-10 freeway.
As the emergency unfolded, these dedicated professionals supported mandatory evacuations, assisted regional response efforts, and transitioned to perimeter security and access control, ensuring emergency responders, utility crews, humanitarian aid providers, and essential personnel could safely access affected areas. Their tireless efforts continued until operations transitioned to the National Guard, reflecting the resilience and dedication that define public service at its best.
Today, we recognize and celebrate the entire Traffic Services Unit, including its officers, leads, supervisors, and unit manager, for their outstanding service during one of the region’s most challenging emergencies.