Neighborhood group launches Bike-A-Cop fundraiser

October 10, 2014, the Morning Call

Photo: Allentown police officers patrol on Linden Street. (MORNING CALL FILE PHOTO)

The City of Allentown has 38 police officers who have been trained to do bike patrol on its streets.

But it doesn't have enough bicycles to cover every officer. And some of the bikes it does have are outdated.

Enter the Allentown Presidents Council, an organization that represents 33 neighborhood groups.

The group has launched a Bike-A-Cop fundraiser. It wants to raise enough money to buy 10 bicycles, according to Ernie Atiyeh, president of the Allentown Presidents Council.

The cost for each bike is $1,446.

"They are lightweight. They also have saddle bags, lights and water bottles holders. They aren't just your average bikes," Atiyeh said, explaining the cost.

Atiyeh said the council got involve because members want to see more officers patrolling city neighborhoods on bikes.

He explained the police cruisers are equipped with bike racks, making it possible for an officer to drive to a patrol area, park, then make his or her rounds on a bike.

"Someone on a bike, they stop, they talk to you, you get to know that person," Atiyeh said. "Once that happens, the resident opens up more or less and is able to give information to the police officer because they trust them. I've seen it happen. It's fantastic.

The group is seeking money from individuals, groups and businesses. While any donation will be appreciated, the council has set up group donations levels that range from $100 to $500 and corporate levels that range from $1,000 to $3,000.

Any additional funding will be used to buy additional equipment such as helmets and spare parts.

Checks or money orders can be sent to: Allentown Presidents Council, 421 W. Chew St., Allentown, Pa. 18102-3490. The fundraiser ends Dec. 31. All donations are tax deductible.

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