HEYWORTH - In a world of $4 per gallon gas, Heyworth Police are doing their part to conserve.

The department has purchased a bicycle that officers will use in part to reduce the amount of time they spend patrolling the village in cars. The 24-speed bike, specially built for police duty, cost about $600, said Police Chief Chris Lane.

Lane suggested the purchase to the village board, which has been exploring ways to reduce the village's gasoline consumption.

"We can park the car at a subdivision entrance, take the bike off the rack and cruise around, then return back to the car to move to a different part of town," Lane explained. "Some of the guys have just kept the car at Village Hall and cruised town on the bike."

Lane said the bicycle will be useful at community events such as Hey Days, high school football games and other activities. He also sees it as a tool for outreach.

"That's why I really wanted the bike," said Lane. "It's very good for community relations. "I hope citizens feel if they see an officer riding by on the bike, instead of just waving at them, maybe they will flag them down and strike up a conversation."