In May 1995 the Belchertown Police Department formed a Mountain Bike Patrol Unit as part of their departments Community Policing Program to add a additional component to there patrol unit.

The Unit was developed through funding from a Community Police grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety. All uniforms, three bicycles and related equipment were funded through this grant

In Sept. 1996 The Belchertown Lions Club graciously donated a fourth Bicycle to our program.

The Belchertown Police department presently has seven bicycle officers who have receive specialized training in bicycle riding, which includes nomenclature of the bicycle, nutrition, maintenance of the bicycle , riding skills, riding in traffic and maneuvering in close quarter areas.

The Bicycle patrol has been a very successful addition to our department.  Officers are assigned to community events, school functions and assignment during regular patrol duties.

The Bicycle Officer is characterized as more approachable by the community, develops more positive Police and Community interaction. The bike Officer has increased mobility and has lower profile in the detection of crimes and disorders.