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For many Durangoans, their bicycles may be their most prized – and only – set of wheels. Which is why bike thieves are among the lowest of the low. But, with bike thefts on the rise, Durango Police are helping residents protect their bikes through a free registration system called “Project 529.”

Project 529 is a nationwide network that brings cyclists, law enforcement and communities together to help stop bike theft. Registering bikes in the program makes it easier to identify and recover stolen bikes via a national database. When a bike is stolen, an alert is sent to Project 529 participants in the area, sort of like an “Amber Alert” for bikes. Police can also search the database if they find a suspected stolen bike.

According to Durango Police, last year, 104 bicycles were reported stolen, but only 36 were recovered.

“Whether you are pedaling through the trails, commuting downtown or just cruising around, your bike deserves to be safe, and this program helps ensure it will come back to you if it is stolen,” McKenzie Perdue, public information officer with the Durango PD, said.

To register your bike, visit Project 529 online or download the app and create a free account. Add an email and select “Allow 529 to partner with us, your law enforcement agency.”

Once registered, you will get a unique, discreet shield decal to add to your bike as a theft deterrent.

If your bike is stolen, report it immediately through Project 529 to activate alerts across the network. 

In addition to signing up for the app, Durango Police are also working with local bike shops to add the decal and register bikes when people buy new bikes, said Perdue. Likewise, if you are buying a used bike, you can run the serial number or decal through Project529. If it was reported through that platform, it will be flagged as stolen.