The helicopter debuted to the public at a launch event on Aug. 20, 2024, and is designed to enhance public safety capabilities in Arizona’s West Valley.
“As Peoria continues to experience rapid growth, the need for additional police and fire resources becomes increasingly important to ensure the safety of our residents,” city officials said in a statement.
“With a planning area spanning over 233 square miles, it can be challenging for first responders to cover such a large area in emergency situations. The addition of this state-of-the-art aviation unit will expand law enforcement capabilities, search-and-rescue services, firefighting efforts, and significantly decrease response times throughout the city.”
Peoria purchased its new Bell 505 with $3.5 million in state funding, part of city council’s efforts to pursue public safety as a strategic priority.
The aviation unit is expected to be fully deployed by October 2025. It will be available for use by surrounding cities in the West Valley upon request, officials said.
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