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Our friendly South Miami neighborhood just got a little friendlier!
You may have started noticing police officers on bicycle patrol recently. That’s because the South Miami Police Department is reviving bike patrols to increase efficiency in navigating around town, and to give residents and officers a chance to get to know one another.
Despite our modest 2.3-square-mile city, our police department is home to 51 sworn positions and 8 civilian staff. The Uniform Patrol Division is the largest and most visible, and is committed to proactive, community-centric service and safety. The SMPD is top of the list among South Florida’s precincts, particularly in response times and professionalism.
This bike patrol program is the latest among several education and outreach programs dedicated to interacting with residents of all ages. Local programs include the Police Explorers Program, which offers youths aged 14 to 21 the opportunity to learn more about careers in law enforcement.
The SMPD also participates in national programs, such as D.A.R.E., with elementary and middle school students, and M.A.D.D., with drivers and passengers of all ages. 
South Miami resident Officer Matthew Taylor is enthusiastic about this new initiative. “I love working in South Miami because it offers you such a small-town feel that is not easy to find in Miami. The bike patrol will enable us to meet people on a different level and interact with the public in a new way.”
So give a wave or have a chat with our officers around town — they’re looking forward to it!