MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – A program putting cops on bikes is back in the Capital City.
The Montpelier Police Department has made an effort to be more present downtown — in their cars, on foot, and now by bike.
“After the flood, there was definitely an uptick in mischief and I definitely don’t walk to walk to my car at night by myself anymore,” said Jenny Sebold, who owns two businesses downtown and says more police presence is welcome. “I think it would offer just that, you know, a presence, being able to reach out to somebody if they are there. I can be like, ‘Hey, I noticed that there’s this thing going on or there is this happening over here. Can you guys check it out?’”
Other residents also think it’s a good idea. “The police department was kind of more visible, more community-minded. I even saw a bike patrol officer pull over somebody for talking on their cell phone while they were driving. It was pretty cool to see a bike pull over an automobile,” said Ethan Parke.
The patrol program was put on hold following after last year’s floods, when the department’s basement took on water and destroyed some bikes.
Montpelier Police Sgt. Michael Philbrick says it’s essential for public engagement and safety. “The most important part is the ability for the community to access us much easier. You know, I am wearing shorts and a polo shirt, riding a bike. Folks are more likely to humanize us, kind of being where people aren’t expecting you to be — in the alleys, behind buildings, on the bike path,” he said.
Officers are hoping to add electric bikes in the future.