Meet Officer Ampthor: Downtown’s Newest Bike Officer

The City of Chattanooga recently added an additional bike officer to fill the role left vacant when Officer Moses retired. In this case, the City defines downtown as Frazier Ave, to Main Street, and from HWY 27 to Central Avenue. The Business Improvement District falls squarely inside this area. As part of the City’s commitment to expanded police officer presence, the police department also altered the schedule for the bike officers, so that Downtown will soon have bike officers working 7 days a week. On the new schedule, the officers’ shifts overlap and provide coverage from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM most days.

There are plans in place to hire two additional bike officers! The police department will fill the positions once staffing levels allow.

We chatted with Officer Michael Ampthor about his new assignment.

Q: Tell us a little bit about your background.

A: I’ve spent my whole career working in law enforcement for the City of Chattanooga. I’ve been working here for over nine years and spent most of that time working in East Lake - Baker South, but I sometimes worked Downtown for special events and projects. That’s how I knew I wanted to work Downtown.

Q: Why did you apply for this position?

A: I really wanted this job. In fact, I’ve wanted to be a bike officer from the beginning of my career. Bike officers are so approachable, and know the city. They are available to the public and responsive in a different way. I wanted to do that, and I really enjoy being outside. Getting this position was achieving a big goal for me!

Q: What would you like to tell the business owners, workers, and visitors?

I’ve been meeting lots of business owners and managers, and it’s really good so far. I get to engage with lots of new people and everyone is great. I’d encourage anyone to say hello, and introduce yourself to me. I’m looking forward to being a regular part of downtown.

Q: What’s your favorite place for lunch within the Business Improvement District?

A: There are lots of good places to eat but I have to say I do love lunch at Lil’ Mamas - that’s a go-to stop for me.

Q: We know you are thinking about safety all day, every day. Give us a safety tip we should keep top of mind.

A: If you are a pedestrian, my safety advice is to cross at a crosswalk, and only with the signal. If you’re driving - check for bikes and pedestrians. Slow down and spend a moment checking all around you.

A big congratulations to Officer Ampthor on this assignment! If you see him or any of our hard-working bike officers, give them a warm welcome to Downtown.