New York State Senator Pete Harckham announced today a $250,000 investment in state funding for the Peekskill Police Department. This funding, secured through two State Senate grants, was used to purchase a new hybrid squad car and make significant renovations to the department’s headquarters.
“Supporting our law enforcement professionals has always been a top priority of mine, and I’m proud to secure this quarter-million-dollar investment for the Peekskill Police Department,” said Harckham. “Keeping our equipment up to date is crucial for community safety, and this new squad car will allow our officers to serve while minimizing environmental impact. The renovations will create much-needed space for Peekskill’s officers and ensure the department remains modern.”
The new vehicle, a 2023 Ford Mustang hybrid, has been added to the Peekskill PDs fleet and is being used by the command staff and detective unit, freeing up additional patrol cars for officers. A 5-passenger vehicle, the new squad car can accommodate all necessary equipment and has a range of 350 miles when fully charged.
“The City of Peekskill Police Department is willing to try and incorporate green technologies into our operations to help safeguard the environment,” said Chief Police Leo Dylewski. “We will continue to explore new ways to cut our carbon footprint, whether it is with our vehicles or our new locker room. We are appreciative of all the help we have received regarding these endeavors.”
Renovations are set to begin later this year, focusing on converting an unfinished part of the basement into an exercise and training room, as well as expanding existing locker rooms and restrooms. The current gym is insufficient for the department’s needs, and the renovations will increase the size of the exercise facility by over 30%. Once the new facility is completed, the old gym will be converted into a secure storage space. The renovated locker room will feature over 60 locker units and a fully ADA-compliant restroom.
“Peekskill is making great strides in reducing its carbon footprint, thanks to the commitment of our mayor, council, and Conservation Advisory Council, and I am excited to see this latest investment in electrification,” said Peekskill City Councilwoman Kathleen Talbot. “Our police will benefit greatly from these new facilities upgrades. Thank you to Senator Harckham for his continued support of our city. Having a state partner who is paying attention to our needs and able to deliver for our community is so important.”
The funding comes from the Community Resiliency, Economic Sustainability, and Technology (CREST) program which is administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) to support community and economic development. Harckham has delivered more than $8 million of State Senate grant funding to first responders in the 40th Senate District since taking office in 2019.
