Millerton police riding high thanks to donation

MILLERTON — In conjunction with the annual Harlem Valley Rail Ride, Bike New York has donated two Fuji bicycles to the Millerton Police Department, which is looking to start a bike unit in the village.

“This is the sixth year for the event, and it was the right time for us to make a gift [to the town],� said Bike New York Tour Director Steven Taylor. Two bikes, fully equipped, along with six helmets and gloves, were given to the police squad.

There is currently only one officer certified to patrol on bicycle, but the rest of the department will follow suit soon, and Chief Rich Howard explained that the new options for the department would help better serve the village.

“We’ll be out on the Harlem Valley Rail Trail and around the village as well,� Howard said. “We’ll be able to get around a little easier. Plus they’re talking about extending the Rail Trail. On the weekends that place is crowded.�

“It’s for overall safety,� explained Mayor John Scutieri. “It’s a great opportunity and a great gesture. I think it shows that we are willing to work in new directions.�

The program won’t be starting just yet, as all of the six officers in the department will need training first, and the details of the unit have yet to be worked out. But in the future, expect to see the boys and girls in blue riding around on a trail near you.