From the Garage to Glory: Brookdale Students Unveil Restored Patrol Car

LINCROFT, NJ … After months of dedicated work, Brookdale Community College Automotive Technology students proudly returned the fully restored 1966 Chrysler Newport police car to the Union Beach Police Department — just in time for the town's 100th anniversary parade this July. 

 What began as a challenging mechanical project grew into something much larger: a labor of love, a tribute to local history, and an inspiring example of student excellence and community collaboration. 

 The car, affectionately nicknamed "Christine" and newly designated TC31, honors the late Detective Corporal Tim Kelly, a beloved member of the Union Beach Police Department. It will serve as a moving tribute to his service every time it rolls down the streets of Union Beach. 

 "This project was about so much more than just restoring a car," said George Poosikian, Brookdale Automotive faculty member and project leader. "We went through it soup to nuts — new brake lines, fuel lines, tires, radiator, and a rebuilt 303 engine with a four-barrel carburetor. It's now a running, breathing representation of a 1966 police vehicle. But real pride comes from seeing the growth of the students. Their confidence, their teamwork — it's been amazing to watch." 

 The journey began when the Union Beach Police Department's vintage car broke down during a ceremonial funeral parade. Rather than retiring it, Chief Michael Woodrow reached out to Brookdale's Automotive Department to bring it back to life — and the students enthusiastically rose to the challenge. 

 Chief Woodrow, speaking during the ceremonial turnover at Brookdale's Automotive Technology Center, expressed deep gratitude.