COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
SUBJECT:
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2nd Reading - Ordinance 2025-O-10: Amending Section 17-46. Traffic, Electric Bicycles; Enforcement
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DEPARTMENT:
Police Department
SUMMARY:
Over the past year, the Edgewater Police Department and City Council have received numerous complaints from residents regarding the reckless and unsafe operation of electric bicycles (e-bikes). The most common concerns involve speeding, weaving through pedestrian traffic, and near-collisions with walkers in our parks and on sidewalks.
To address these public safety concerns, two ordinances have been drafted:
* Ordinance amending Section 12.5-1 (Park Use Ordinance)
* Ordinance creating Section 17-46 (Sidewalk and Traffic Ordinance)
Summary of the Ordinances:
1. Sidewalk Ordinance (Sec. 17-46) 2025-O-10
What It Does: Prohibits motor-powered e-bike use on all public sidewalks citywide. Riders may still use e-bikes on roads and trails where motor vehicles are allowed.
Human-Powered Use: Riders can still use e-bikes on sidewalks if not using the motor-just like a regular bicycle.
ADA Exception: Also exempts mobility devices used by individuals with disabilities.
Recommendation
The Police Department supports both ordinances. At a minimum, we recommend passing the Park Ordinance immediately due to the high volume of complaints and the danger posed in those confined spaces.
However, we also strongly recommend passage of the Sidewalk Ordinance. Sidewalks are not designed for fast, motorized traffic. This ordinance strikes a balance-allowing e-bikes on the road and on sidewalks when pedaled manually, while preventing unsafe motorized use near pedestrians.
* These rules don't ban e-bikes-they just make sure they're used safely and responsibly.
* You can still ride e-bikes in Edgewater, just not under power in places where people walk.
* If you're pedaling like a regular bike, these ordinances do not apply.
BUDGETED ITEM: ? Yes ? No ? Not Applicable
BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: ?...
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