21 Aug The NYPD’s Smarter Alternative to Towing and Traditional Boots
When one of the largest police departments in the country adopts a new parking enforcement tool, people take notice.
The New York City Police Department (NYPD) operates in one of the most demanding parking enforcement environments in the world. To help improve safety and efficiency, the department has incorporated the Barnacle® into its enforcement toolkit as an alternative to traditional booting and towing.
Improving Safety and Efficiency
Traditional wheel boots can take several minutes to install and require enforcement personnel to kneel near active traffic lanes.
The Barnacle changes that.
“The Barnacle is safer than our current booting system because it only takes about 20 to 30 seconds to deploy, as opposed to the two to three minutes where the agent has to kneel down street side. The technology also makes it more efficient by providing real-time GPS tracking and tamper alerts.”
— NYPD Traffic Enforcement, via NBC News
For agencies looking to improve employee safety and streamline operations, faster deployment means less roadside exposure and less potential for interaction with angry motorists.
A Smarter Alternative to Towing
Towing can be frustrating for everyone involved. Drivers must locate their vehicle, travel to a tow yard, and pay towing and storage fees before getting their car back.
With the Barnacle, the vehicle stays where it is.
Instead of searching for a tow lot, drivers can resolve the issue quickly and get immediate access back to their vehicle.
Simple Self-Service Resolution
- Scan the QR code on the Barnacle
- Pay eligible tickets and fees
- Receive a release code
- Remove the device yourself
Predictable, Transparent Enforcement
Traditional towing costs can add up fast and often include multiple fees that are difficult to predict.
The Barnacle offers a simpler, more predictable approach. Drivers know exactly what is required to resolve the violation, helping them avoid larger towing and storage expenses while still achieving compliance.
Proven in Cities Across the Country
The NYPD is not alone. The Barnacle is trusted by over 40 agencies and universities in more than 40 states nationwide — including national parking operators, university police, and municipalities of every size.
As more cities look for safer, more efficient enforcement tools, the Barnacle continues to gain momentum as a modern alternative to traditional towing and wheel boots.
The Future of Parking Enforcement
For agencies looking to improve safety, reduce roadside risk, streamline operations, and provide a better experience for drivers, the Barnacle offers a proven solution.
The NYPD’s adoption shows that modern parking enforcement doesn’t have to rely on the same methods used decades ago. Sometimes, a smarter approach is already here.
Click here to learn more about the Barnacle and see how it’s being used in parking enforcement.