Fairfield's Bicycle Officers are back after a five-year hiatus due to a lack of manpower.

Police Chief Dave Peck says it's not necessarily about apprehending criminals -- it's about being available to the community.

"The main advantage is their accessibility," Peck said. "They're able to deal with the merchants, deal with the community, deal with the folks down at the beach and in other areas of town where someone in a patrol car would be less accessible."

Fairfield's fittest are selected from the force based on their interest and ability. There are now 14 officers qualified for bike patrol, and they ride about 25 miles a day.