Utica Introduces Electric Power Bikes to UPD

UTICA—Utica Mayor Robert M. Palmieri and Utica Police Chief Mark Williams announced the introduction of Recon Interceptor Power Bikes into the fleet of the Utica Police Department.

The electric bicycles are part of the City’s efforts to reduce gun violence and will be utilized for the purpose of community policing and patrol in city parks. The bikes add the ability to police large crowds, fit into tighter spaces and cover more distance faster than traditional means of transportation.

The city purchased four of the bikes with money from the American Rescue Plan Act as part of its effort to use the latest technology to improve the department’s capabilities. The bikes have lower maintenance cost, higher mobility and are better for the environment than cars. Officers have already begun training on the bikes and UPD has invited neighboring police agencies to observe and try the power bikes.

Utica Mayor Robert M. Palmieri said: “The City of Utica is committed to keeping our residents and law enforcement officers safe. The e-bikes we have purchased give officers another tool to better protect themselves and the communities they serve in a variety of ways. Recently, we have purchased UTV vehicles, installed dozens of cameras on our light poles and created five more police positions. We will continue to invest in the safety of our city.”

Utica Police Chief Mark Williams: “The Utica Police Department is committed to being adaptable and progressive in its training, equipment and practices. As our society continues to evolve, so will the Utica Police Department. These power bikes will give us more capability and give officers the opportunity to have a more prominent presence in the communities they serve.”