Ohio Parks System Gets Donated Electric Police Motorcycles

The Cleveland Metroparks Police Department in Ohio recently debuted the newest addition to its patrol fleet — one of two electric motorcycles donated by the FirstEnergy Foundation. The police department is believed to be the first in the region using electric motorcycles to patrol its more than 300 miles of trails, according to the foundation.

Katherine Dolan, chief of police at the 24,000-acre Cleveland Metroparks System, said the motorcycles are a win-win for the parks and the environment because they reduce carbon emissions released into the atmosphere and decrease fuel costs, while continuing to allow officers to respond quickly to calls since the bikes can reach up to 105 mph.

The motorcycle — a Zero motorcycle dual-sport, heavy-duty model valued at $25,685 — has a range of about 140 miles per charge and can be used both on- and off-road. The first bike hit the roads in early April, and the second bike will be deployed next year. They join a team of 90 Metroparks police officers who patrol on foot, bicycle, horse, and in marked cruisers.

FirstEnergy Foundation is funded solely by FirstEnergy Corp., an investor-owned utility with10 electric operating companies. Cleveland Metroparks is a separate political subdivision of the State of Ohio.