New Bicycle Patrol Unit kicks off this Saturday at Bryson Park

The Lilburn Police Department Bicycle Patrol Unit will roll into action this Saturday with the opening of Bryson Park.

The department recently enhanced its patrols by adding four officers to this specialty area of policing, making a total of seven certified bicycle officers on staff. This week the last batch of officers will complete a certified training course. They must successfully complete an obstacle course that simulates riding through a crowd, be able to ride down several flights of stairs, and make tight turns and sudden stops. Officers have been riding at least 20 miles a day during training.

Police Chief Bruce Hedley said, “The bike unit is designed to make officers more approachable and accessible. Officers talk to people while on patrol to find out their concerns and other issues.”

Officers will ride in the city’s trails, parks, neighborhoods or parking lots. They will also be on hand for special events, where bikes make it easier to maneuver through a crowd.

“They are never more than five minutes away from their patrol cars, however, so they will always be able to respond quickly to an emergency,” Hedley said.

Check out a video of the officers training at www.facebook.com/CityofLilburn.