Bike Patrol to Roll Out Along 90 Miles in Columbia

Trails in Columbia will soon have more people on wheels paying visits.

Howard County Police Chief Gary Gardner this week announced the creation of a “Pathway Patrol” section.

He said it was a preventive measure to provide people with a feeling of safety while they are recreating.

“While we have not seen an increase in crime on our paths or trails, we want to grow and adapt as the county continues to grow,” Gardner said in a statement.

The new bike patrol division will launch on Monday, Aug. 10, according to the department.

Seven officers will be on bicycles or electric motorcycles to help patrol along the 90 miles of bike paths in Columbia, police reported. Members will also control other parts of the county, where there are 100 more miles of bike trails, police said.

According to police, the goal is provide a visible presence on pathways and in neighborhoods, in areas that may not be easily accessible on foot or by patrol car.

Photo Credit: Howard County Police Department.