RCMP add another utility vehicle

Kelly Hayes CASTANET

Kelowna RCMP believe they have the answer to growing safety concerns at some Rutland area parks. It's called the Easy Go and looks very similar to the Gator -- the RCMP's utility vehicle introduced in 2006. Superintendent, Bill McKinnon, says stats show that young people are staying away from our parks because they don't feel safe. "We've had so much success with the first one and we weren't really able to deal with the Ben Lee and Lions parks and we really need to be up in that area." He says that like the Gator, the Easy Go will make his officers more accessible to the public. "We've had tremendous success with the Gator in the community. The tourists welcome it in our parks. It's very maneuverable and user friendly. We can be not only on the bike paths and greenways, but we can also drive on the grass and pull up and talk to people. It's about visibility and perception." The Easy Go is somewhat more expensive than the Gator. The Gator cost approximately $7,000 while the Easy Go's price tag is $11,000 and goes more than 60 km/h. McKinnon says the Easy Go will likely make its debut in the Rutland area this week.