BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — The Kern County Sheriff’s Office is asking for permission to apply for a grant to buy 10 electric bikes, according to the Kern County Board of Supervisors agenda for Tuesday.

If approved, the department can submit a grant application to the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. This would be part of the 2026 New Alternative Fuel Vehicle program, the agenda said.

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KCSO is looking to purchase 10 ATR 528 Police e-bikes, according to the agenda.

The project is estimated to cost $100,000, which the department wants to fund through the program. Each new vehicle costs about $9,053, according to the drafted application.

According to a letter of proposal to the Board from sheriff’s officials, e-bikes enhance patrol efforts in the community.

Bicycle patrol has shown it can increase officer visibility in congested areas while also being quiet, providing a tactical approach to crimes as they occur, the agenda said.

Patrol bikes can be used for regular patrol duty, traffic enforcement, parking control or special events, according to sheriff’s officials. The bikes could also be deployed to any area at all hours depending on KCSO’s needs and staffing levels.

“The use of the patrol bicycle will emphasize their mobility and visibility to the community,” the letter read.

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According to KCSO, the e-bikes would also reduce vehicle emissions and fuel consumption.

The Sheriff’s Department currently isn’t using e-bikes, KCSO spokesperson Lori Meza said.

The meeting is set for 9 a.m. Feb. 10 in the Board Chambers at 1115 Truxtun Ave.

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