New Castle, NY – New York State Senator Pete Harckham announced today that the New Castle Police Department has acquired two new motorcycles with the assistance of an $80,000 state grant he secured. 

“Providing law enforcement with modern, dependable equipment is critical to public safety,” said Harckham. “These new motorcycles will strengthen the department’s ability to patrol effectively, manage traffic and serve the community.” 

New Castle Town Supervisor Victoria Tipp said, “We are grateful to Senator Harckham for securing this important funding for New Castle. These new motorcycles will enhance the Police Department’s ability to respond quickly, manage traffic safely and engage with the community. Investments like this help ensure our residents and visitors continue to feel safe and well-served.” 

New Castle Police Chief James D. Carroll said, “These new motorcycles are a significant upgrade for our department, replacing units that served us well for more than two decades. The enhanced performance, safety features and reliability of these bikes will improve our officers’ ability to patrol, respond to incidents and support community events. We appreciate Senator Harckham’s continued support of our public safety needs.” 

The funding, provided through the state’s Community Resiliency, Economic Sustainability and Technology (CREST) grant program, enabled the purchase of two Harley-Davidson FLHTP “Police Electra Glide” motorcycles. These touring motorcycles are purpose-built for law enforcement and emergency response, featuring heavy-duty components, a high-output Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, specialized solo seating, sirens and emergency lighting. 

The new motorcycles will replace two units that have clocked more than 20 years of service between them. They will be deployed for traffic enforcement, routine patrols across the town’s 26 square miles, special event escorts and community engagement efforts. 

CREST grants provide targeted funding to municipalities and community institutions for projects that enhance infrastructure, improve energy efficiency, and strengthen essential services. By supporting cost-saving upgrades, the program helps reduce financial burdens on local governments and taxpayers. 

Since taking office in 2019, Harckham has secured more than $40 million in capital funding for municipalities throughout Senate District 40 through CREST, the Local Community Assistance Program (LOCAP), and State Aid to Municipalities (SAM). That amount includes $11 million for police and other first responders.