Overview

• Police unveiled the feature in a Facebook video Monday and began the rollout Tuesday across patrol units.
• The steady blue light is a non-emergency signal intended to increase visibility and deter crime, so drivers are not required to pull over.
• Flashing red and blue lights with sirens will continue to signal emergencies or traffic stops.
• KCPD plans a three-month trial and is spending about $14,000 to reprogram vehicles, modeling the approach on programs in cities such as Charlotte and Washington, D.C.
• Early reactions from residents range from support for easier identification of officers to hesitation about heightened police visibility.