Gloucester Township Police Media Release - Gloucester Township Police Department Participates in Statewide “Goal: Zero” Traffic Safety Initiative on Thanksgiving Eve
The Gloucester Township Police Department (GTPD) will participate in “Goal: Zero,” a statewide high-visibility traffic enforcement initiative focused on reducing roadway fatalities and serious injuries across New Jersey. The coordinated Goal: Zero operation will take place on November 26, 2025, between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
Thanksgiving Eve, commonly known as “Blackout Wednesday” or “Drinksgiving,” marks the beginning of a seasonal increase in impaired driving. To address this trend, law enforcement agencies throughout the state will join together for synchronized Goal: Zero enforcement efforts, according to the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP). Goal: Zero represents a growing statewide commitment to achieving Zero Deaths, Zero Injuries, and Zero Crashes on New Jersey's roadways. The initiative targets dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving through a combination of education, high-visibility patrols, and data-driven enforcement.
The program began in response to tragedy. In January 2024, a three-year-old child was killed in a crash on Highway 34 in Howell Township. In the aftermath, Holmdel Police Officer Matt Menosky launched an effort to prevent similar losses, which soon developed into the statewide Goal: Zero campaign. Today, police departments across New Jersey work together under a unified mission to promote safer roadways and prevent future tragedies. “Goal Zero started with a single loss, a child whose memory now drives a statewide mission. Our aim is zero fatalities, a realistic and attainable goal. With Goal Zero, enforcement becomes prevention, utilizing discipline, data, and deterrence to protect every New Jerseyan on the road,” said Chief William Parenti (Ret.), Chair of the NJSACOP Traffic Safety Committee.
The Gloucester Township Police Department will join numerous New Jersey law enforcement agencies during this coordinated effort, including several neighboring departments. “The Gloucester Township Police Department is proud to participate in this important enforcement initiative, with the ultimate goal of making New Jersey's roadways safer for everyone. Safety is always our top priority,” said Gloucester Township Police Chief Anthony Minosse.
According to the Holmdel Police Department, the Goal: Zero logo carries a deeper meaning. Its color represents high visibility and is traditionally associated with pedestrian and school safety. The black bar signifies a mourning band, honoring all lives lost in traffic crashes.
The Gloucester Township Police Department urges motorists to drive safely this holiday season by avoiding impairment, eliminating distractions, and following posted speed limits. Plan ahead with a sober driver or alternate transportation to help ensure everyone arrives safely.
