HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office officially launched the Bicycle Response Team (BRT) in time for Super Bowl LV.
The 18-member team will make its first major event appearance during Super Bowl LV and the events leading up to the big game. Serving as extra eyes on the ground for proactive patrol and crowd control, the BRT will be dispersed around Downtown Tampa and around Raymond James Stadium.
Equipped with their own Volcanic Bike and bike mount for their patrol vehicle, deputies will be able to navigate swiftly through narrow and congested city streets and large crowds.
The bikes are built to be easily maneuverable and can handle all patrol-related duties, allowing for quick and efficient response times.
Over the past year, members have undergone extensive, certified training to build resistance and learn useful techniques, like riding up and down stairs, in the event of an emergency.
The team meets regularly for group rides that can last up to 12 hours. Members have learned how to ride in formation, and have experience riding at night, or during inclement weather.
“We are excited to launch the Bicycle Response Team right on time for the nation’s largest sporting event that has taken over Tampa Bay,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Combined with our existing specialty teams, we are fully prepared to keep our community safe during this exciting occasion.”
