West Springfield, MA: Following the purchase of four new mountain bikes, the West Springfield Police Department has resumed bicycle patrols of the Bear Hole conservation area. The bikes were purchased from Colorado Ski & Bike Shop located in West Springfield. The purchase was funded through use of the Town’s American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”) funds. In addition to the purchase of the new bikes, the Town has also committed further funding to staff additional patrols in Bear Hole throughout the summer.
With the warmer weather returning, Bear Hole typically sees an increase in residents visiting the property to take advantage of the passive recreational opportunities that are permissible at the site. Unfortunately, the warmer weather also brings with it more individuals visiting the property for undesirable activities that are illegal or not permitted. The presence of the West Springfield Police Department will help to deter individuals from engaging in behavior that is detrimental to the property.
West Springfield would like to remind residents that Bear Hole is open to the public from dawn until dusk for passive recreational activities, such as walking, running, hiking and biking. Although the Police Department may also be patrolling the property by UTV, the public is not permitted to use motorized vehicles anywhere within the property.
If you encounter an emergency situation in Bear Hole, always call 911. Non-emergency situations can be reported to the Police Department using their non-emergency line, (413) 263-3210.
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