Greensboro police offers bicycle ride-along program

NELSON KEPLEY/News & Record
Photo:  Greensboro police Officer T.W. Elder pedals down South Elm Street while on patrol in downtown Greensboro.

Posted: Friday, June 27, 2014 1:40 pm

Wondering what Greensboro police officers do on bike patrol?

Now you can find out for yourself. The department is now offering a bike ride-along program. The program is similar to the ride-along program in police cars, except community members bicycle alongside officers on their bikes.

“The bicycle ride-along program will not only familiarize participants with the complex nature and benefits of police work while on bike patrol, it will also strengthen the bond between community members and police,” said Officer A.S. Wallace, who launched the program.
In order to participate in the bicycle ride-along, interested cyclists must attend an eight-hour training session. In the training, participants will learn the key elements of cycling safety, along with how the bicycles are used in police work.

After completing the training — which includes a chaperoned bicycle ride — participants are eligible to ride along with bike officers as they patrol neighborhoods and the downtown area.

The first training course is Saturday, July 12, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Meet at the Lewis Recreation Center, 3110 Forest Lawn Drive.

Participants must be 18 years of age or older, in good health and pass a background check. Riders are encouraged to bring their own helmets and bicycles. Bicycles and helmets for those who need them will be provided. Attendees should wear comfortable clothes and bring a small lunch or snack.

Class size is limited to 20 people. To sign up or learn more about bicycle ride-along program, pedal to the “Community Programs” section of http://www.gsopd.org. Applications must be received by July 6.

---