Remember Bike Patrol? The Buzzer covered the inception of this cool new Transit Security crew back in May.

That’s when Bike Patrol hit the streets in downtown Vancouver as part of a four month trial.

Six existing General Security Patrol officers traded their car for a bike and assisted front-line staff and customers downtown during daylight hours.

Each officer went through an intensive four-day training program to be CAN-bike certified.

Security officers had the opportunity to focus on fare inspections and security-related incidents, create a positive customer service experience first-hand and go places where they might otherwise be restricted by being in a car.

The trial is wrapping up on October 10, 2015 and Jessica Hewitt of CMBC checked in with staff to hear what they had to say about the experience.

Being able to be a part of the Transit Security Bike Patrol has been such a great experience. I feel I have greatly increased my contact with operators. Being on the bikes has us at eye level with operators, providing us with clear communication, giving us the ability to respond immediately to any situation. I can get to situations much faster, than if I was in a car.
– Trevor Handford, Transit Security

Bike Patrol has been a joy to perform and the comments we’ve received from operators has been positive. Many are glad to see us, tell us that we are welcome on their buses and that they love our uniforms (since we’re hard to miss!). I am very thankful for the training course that we went through before starting as without it I would’ve been less comfortable riding in the downtown core.  I’ll be sad when it is over as this has been one of the best learning experiences at CMBC.
– Jessica Stennes, Transit Security

What’s next for Bike Patrol?

Transit Security is in the process of collecting data and feedback from staff.

We are also looking at statistics to determine reduced carbon emissions and vehicle costs, number of customer contacts, inspections and assistance to the public.

Have you encountered Bike Patrol on any downtown summer transit trips?
Let us know what you think of the program by commenting below!

Author: Adrienne Coling