Lombard City Council enacts electric scooter restrictions for downtown safety

In the heart of Lombard, under the warm glow of city hall lights, the Village Board of Trustees convened to address a pressing issue: the safety of electric scooter use in the downtown area. As the popularity of these low-speed vehicles rises, so too do concerns about their safe operation among pedestrians and other road users.

During the meeting, officials discussed a proposed ordinance aimed at prohibiting electric scooters from public rights of way, including sidewalks and parking lots in specific downtown locations. Streets such as St. Charles, Lincoln, and Main are among those designated as off-limits for scooter riders. This initiative is not entirely new; similar restrictions already exist for roller blades and skateboards, underscoring a long-standing commitment to safety in Lombard's bustling downtown.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has reported alarming statistics, with 18 deaths linked to electric scooters since 2017—a figure many believe is underreported. This backdrop of safety concerns has prompted the village to take proactive measures. The ordinance aims not only to restrict scooter use but also to educate the public on safe riding practices.

Village officials emphasized that education will be the cornerstone of their approach. Starting May 5, the village plans to launch a public awareness campaign through social media, newsletters, and flyers distributed to local schools. The goal is to ensure that both children and their parents understand the new regulations before summer break begins. By May 15, officers will begin engaging with the community, distributing educational materials rather than focusing solely on enforcement.

Trustees acknowledged the importance of balancing safety with enjoyment, particularly for the youth who have embraced scooter riding. One trustee noted the increase in close calls between scooters and pedestrians, urging parents to have conversations with their children about responsible riding. The message was clear: while the village does not want to be seen as the "anti-fun police," it is crucial for riders to exercise common sense and caution.

As Lombard prepares to implement these new regulations, the focus remains on fostering a safe and enjoyable environment for all residents. The upcoming summer months will be a critical time for the village to gauge the effectiveness of its educational efforts and the community's compliance with the new ordinance.