An Ames Police Department survey indicates a relatively small percentage of Ames bicyclists wear helmets.

Police conducted the survey of bike helmet usage as a part of a federal grant application.

From Oct. 8-14, officers surveyed 150 bicyclists at three locations within the city of Ames. Location included Welch Avenue, Brookside Park and Lincoln Way and Beedle Drive.

“Officers at all three locations visually observed people twice wearing helmets,” said Shawn Phipps, special investigations officer.

Officers said they were disappointed with the results. Only 14 percent of the bicyclists were wearing helmets.

In the last four years, the number of bicycle accidents has increased 11 percent and accidents resulting in injuries have increased 34 percent.

“We are alarmed at the increase of accidents involving cars and bikes, ” Phipps said.

The grant would allow for Ames police officers to provide 190 hours of patrol to various problem areas and allow for increased educational programs about bicycle safety and traffic enforcement.

“We are hoping to have officers on bike patrol in the spring of 1996,” Phipps said.

The grant has been approved pending authorization of the federal funds.