About the project
In the fall of 2019, the Abbotsford Police Foundation supported AbbyPD’s vision to restore an era correct vintage police cruiser to recognize our history.
The Abbotsford Police Foundation is a not for profit organization and with the generous support from Abbotsford businesses and citizens they build and promote positive relationships that connect the police to our community. The vintage cruiser will be a great way for AbbyPD to continue to engage with our community and at the same time honour our history. The Abbotsford Police Department will be turning 65 this year (40 years of that as the Matsqui Police Department), and we can’t think of a cooler way to celebrate this milestone and our history with our community!
A 1965 Chevrolet Biscayne was located in Spokane, Washington, and transported to its new home in Abbotsford. Over the next several months, AbbyPD officers and multiple community partners volunteered their time to restore this important piece of Abbotsford/Matsqui Police history. Owners of vintage vehicles commonly name their vehicle after a significant female figure. Keeping with this tradition, our car has been named ‘Carol’ after Retired Inspector Carol Powell, who recently passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Carol served the communities of Vancouver and Abbotsford for 34 years and dedicated much of her spare time to the City of Abbotsford and our department. Carol and her husband (Retired Sergeant Mike Powell) brought smiles to many young faces, dressing up each year as Mr. and Mrs. Claus to visit sick children, and hosting many of the AbbyPD’s children’s Halloween parties. Carol eagerly watched the restoration of the car, but sadly passed just prior to its completion. Carol’s family joined the AbbyPD at the unveiling. Sgt. Chris Nightingale was the project’s main coordinator and remarked, “We would like to thank the Abbotsford Police Foundation, numerous community donors and countless others who have had a hand in making this project a success.” We can’t wait to share our restored cruiser with the community, and plan to have her on display at upcoming community events.
January 31, 2020
In 1966, the AbbyNews took the photograph of the AbbyPD Chevrolet Biscayne.
With support from the Abbotsford Police foundation Sgt Chris Nightingale will be embarking on a journey to restore this model of cruiser.
Sgt Chris Nightingale posts on Twitter to introduce everyone to the 1965 Chevrolet Biscayne, future AbbyPD Vintage Cruiser.
They even encountered some snow during their travels home from Spokane.
February 6, 2020
Interior removal . . . door panels / trim off, headliner out, carpet out and seat covers off. We are happy to report that the floorpan is in great shape.
Parts are now off to the upholstery shop for restoration.
February 26, 2020
Glass has been removed and repair of the rust areas has commenced. We remain impressed with the condition of the car (overall, limited rust and was clearly not a rainy BC car). More body parts removed and brake upgrades. ICBC permits safety upgrades (like drum to disc brakes) without collector car disqualification.
March 5, 2020
From day 1, “era correct” has been a crucial part of our restoration. We removed the SB350 and secured a 60’s era CDN BB396, with limited mileage. It’s being rebuilt and looks to be in great shape.
March 19, 2020
Some positive news during these challenging times is that our journey with “Carol” continues. Here, we are taking her to the body shop. As well brackets, hinges and other parts have been sandblasted and painted. Progress continues...
March 26, 2020
Pictured is AbbyPD Constable Sales who is hydro-blasting surface rust and paint from “Carol.” The engine bay looks new!
