More police officers could be hitting the streets in Paterson in the next four years, if the city finds enough money.

The state has approved a plan that would allow Paterson to add 100 officers to its force. Before the city can add the officers, it needs to fill 61 vacancies currently on the force. After the vacancies are filled, the city would add 25 officers per year over four years, starting in 2008.

The question of where the funding will come from for the additional officers is still unanswered. City officials are exploring all avenues in the homeland security funds. The mayor says if the city can?t get federal or state money, taxpayers may absorb the cost.

The City Council still has to approve final plans for the additional cops.