Scottsdale Police Foundation Raising Money to Equip Scottsdale Police Department With E-Bikes

The Scottsdale Police Foundation (SPF) launched a new fundraising initiative aimed at purchasing electric bicycles (E-bikes) for the Scottsdale Police Department. The effort aims to enhance the mobility and response time of officers, particularly in congested areas where traditional vehicles may face challenges.

“When a call comes in, time is of the essence, so anything we can do to help our officers get to a scene faster, we want to do it,” says Scottsdale Police Foundation Founder Debbie Steinhauer. “E-bikes really open up the range officers on bikes can effectively patrol.”
E-bikes are a significant asset for police departments, allowing officers to access areas that are otherwise unreachable by car, providing a quicker response time to emergencies, and offering a versatile mode of patrol. The Scottsdale Police Department has requested funding for 13 E-bikes, along with necessary protective equipment, to bolster their community policing efforts.

“This means we can be more present in the community and respond faster when every second counts.”

“E-bikes are game-changers for us,” says Scottsdale Police Sergeant Michael Clore. “They allow us to navigate through traffic quickly and reach places that patrol cars can’t. This means we can be more present in the community and respond faster when every second counts.”

• Improved mobility: E-bikes allow officers to navigate through the Downtown areas more swiftly and efficiently, especially in congested places where vehicles can’t easily access. This agility can be crucial for faster response times and when responding to emergencies.
• Accessibility: E-bikes can access areas where traditional vehicles might struggle to reach, such as narrow alleyways, pedestrian zones, parks, or trails. This accessibility can be vital during search and rescue operations or when responding to incidents in crowded areas.
• Stealth operations: E-bikes provide a quieter and less conspicuous mode of transportation compared to traditional patrol vehicles. This is advantageous for specific missions, conducting surveillance, or approaching suspects discreetly.
• Health benefits for officers: E-bikes contribute to the overall long-term health and fitness of officers, while still promoting physical activity but reducing strenuous lower body movements and exertion.

Individuals and businesses in Scottsdale are encouraged to support this vital initiative, notes Steinhauer. Community involvement is essential, whether through financial contributions or participation in Foundation events and programs. Such support directly advances the mission of the Scottsdale Police Foundation and enhances the safety and well-being of the Scottsdale community.

The E-bike initiative is just one part of the Foundation’s broader commitment to supporting the Scottsdale Police Department. Other key programs include the Officer Grant Request Program, which reimburses officers for personal expenditures made to assist community members in need, and the Police Athletic/Activities League (PAL) programs, which are set to expand across all district schools. Additionally, the Foundation continues to support “The Closet” initiative, providing essential items to those in need, and is working towards establishing scholarships for youth pursuing careers in law enforcement.