The Tilden Township Police Department recently introduced bicycle patrols for local trails and shopping areas.
In June of 2021, Officer Jordan Heckman completed an International Police Mountain Bike Association training required for bike patrol officers.
In July of 2021, Tilden Township Police ordered a Trek service bicycle from Wolverton’s Cycling & Fitness. Due to a nationwide bicycle and parts shortage at the time, the department was advised that it would be at least a year until delivery.
In mid-April of 2023, the department received the bicycle. The bicycle, emergency lighting, bicycle computer, bicycle rack, helmet and other related bicycle equipment totalled $2800. The entire purchase was paid for by a grant the department received from AAA of Wyomissing.
More than your average bicycle, the helmet contains a sensor that will call other officer cell phones for help if it detects that a crash impact has occurred with the rider.
Last week Officer Heckman began the first bike patrol for the department.
Tilden Township Police say bike patrols will focus on areas like the Bartram Trail near the Kernsville Dam Recreational Area, as well as the Tilden Ridge Shopping area businesses.
