Division of Motors (City Vehicles) – Newark, NJ

About the Division of Motors

The Division of Motors, operating under the Department of Public Works (DPW), acts as the central fleet management agency for the City of Newark. Located at the municipal complex at 920 Broad Street, this division is the mechanical backbone of the city’s operations. Its primary mission is to provide comprehensive maintenance, repair, and management services for the hundreds of vehicles and specialized equipment used by city agencies. This includes the fleets for the Newark Police Division, Fire Department, Sanitation, and administrative offices. By ensuring that police cruisers, fire trucks, and snowplows are operational, the Division of Motors directly supports public safety and essential city services.

Fleet Operations and Maintenance

The division maintains a state-of-the-art garage and service center to handle the diverse needs of the municipal fleet. Responsibilities include:

• Preventative Maintenance: Conducting routine inspections and servicing to extend the lifespan of city assets and ensure safety on the roads.
• Emergency Repairs: Providing rapid response repair services for critical emergency vehicles to minimize downtime.
• Environmental Compliance: Ensuring that all city vehicles meet state and federal emissions standards and safety guidelines.
• Fuel Management: Overseeing the city’s fueling stations and monitoring fuel usage across departments.

Public Interaction and Safety

While the Division of Motors is primarily an internal support agency, it serves a vital public function regarding accountability. The division accepts reports from the public regarding reckless driving or misuse of City-owned vehicles. Residents who observe a vehicle bearing the City of Newark seal being operated unsafely can report the incident to this office for investigation. However, for immediate emergencies involving city vehicles, the public is advised to call 911. The division also coordinates the auction of retired city vehicles and equipment, returning value to the taxpayers.