Bicycle patrols by Marquette City Police
by Rachel Droze, WLUC TV 6, June 23, 2015
MARQUETTE -- In order to better protect the public, the Marquette City Police Department conducts bicycle patrols.
"We take general calls throughout the day, but we also focus more on the downtown area, bike paths, places that we normally wouldn't be able to get to with our patrol cars," said Marquette City Police Department Sergeant Ryan Grim.
Sgt. Grim said these patrols also allow for more positive public interactions.
"I think it makes us more approachable to the public as we're out riding around, it's a little more personal then it is driving by in a police car," said Sgt. Grim. "We seem to be flagged down maybe a little bit more often when we're out doing the bike patrol, so that's kind of nice"
Sgt. Grim said the department's bike patrols have been happening for over 15 years.
"We keep an eye on the bike and pedestrian traffic, it's an easier way to focus on that kind of enforcement, dogs off leash, in the parks, on the bike path area, that kind of stuff is what we're looking for," said Sgt. Grim.
The patrols also serve as a good reminder to motorists to watch for cyclists on the road.
"It's nice for motorists to see not only us, but the other people that commute and ride their bikes daily out on the streets," said Sgt. Grim. "It's a good reminder for them to follow the rules and keep your eye out for children."
Sgt. Grim said the Marquette City Police try to get officers out on bicycle patrol every day, as long as the weather permits.
Northern Michigan University also does bicycle patrols.