The Thorsby Police Department will add a new patrol car to its fleet through a $25,000 grant.

A 2010 Ford Crown Victoria will replace an older model patrol car with numerous mechanical problems that made it increasingly costly for the town to keep on the streets.

Once the older vehicle is retired, the department will continue to have of six vehicles.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grant from funds made available to the state by the U.S. Justice Department. Gov. Bob Riley’s office is awarding the grant.

“Law enforcement officers need modern and reliable equipment to adequately protect and serve their communities,” Riley said. “I am pleased to support the work of Thorsby police to improve the protection of residents.”

Thorsby Chief of Police Rodney Barnett said the new car would be more fuel-efficient and more cost efficient for the town. It will also ensure continued safety for the town’s residents.

The car should arrive within three to four months, Barnett estimated.

Riley informed Mayor Dearl Hilyer that the grant had been approved. The town has committed matching funds of $2,500 toward the vehicle purchase.