11/01/2024 | Press release | Archived content
Published on November 01, 2024
Denver - Friday, November 1, 2024 - Today, Denver City Council, Councilwoman Flor Alvidrez, members of the Denver Police Department and Office of Climate Action, Sustainability & Resiliency (CASR) unveiled DPD's new electric patrol bikes. The 27 e-bikes, recently purchased by CASR, will be utilized in the six DPD districts to create connections with the community while reducing pollution and making Denver safer.
"Today, we're excited to announce the addition of e-bikes to our police force-a step that goes beyond enhanced enforcement to reflect our commitment to cleaner air, community connection, and sustainable mobility," said Councilwoman Alvidrez. "After giving away thousands of e-bikes to community members, it makes me proud to see this technology now integrated into our city systems, thanks to the collaboration between DPD and CASR. With our district also home to the first arterial bike lane made possible by DOTI, and great bike infrastructure along the Platte River, we're reinforcing our investment in safety, accessibility, and environmental health. Together, we're paving the way for a cleaner, more connected future in District 7 and the city of Denver."
DPD will utilize the electric bikes to increase visibility at sporting events, large-scale events, in crime hotspots, and more. Officers will track mileage and calls for service responded to while using the bikes to measure their effectiveness. The Cannondale Moterra 3 mountain e-bikes, purchased through Mike's Bikes, can travel up to 25 miles per hour, have long-lasting batteries, and off-road capabilities. Each of DPD's six districts will receive four e-bikes with District Six (Downtown and central Denver) receiving six of the e-bikes. The additional bike will be used for training.
"Thanks to funding from the Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency, and support from Councilwoman Alvidrez, our officers have increased capacity to patrol our community in a unique manner," said Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas. "With Denver's more than 300 days of sunshine, we look forward to utilizing these electric bicycles to keep Denver safe, while making connections with our community - especially Denver's youth."
The e-bikes were outfitted with:
"Today's investment from the Climate Protection Fund provides 27 city employees with a clean and healthy transportation option. Each electric bike trip not only improves local air quality but also reinforces our commitment to a sustainable future," said Elizabeth Babcock, Executive Director of Denver's Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency. "Together, we are building a climate action movement in Denver that promotes a vibrant, healthier community for today and future generations."
DPD offers a video from when officers were able to test the new electric bicycles. Video from today's press conference is available upon request.