Committee accepts BikePAC recommended bike-lane rules as informational; staff to draft ordinance and start education planning

The Municipal Services, Facilities & Infrastructure Committee voted unanimously to accept the Bicycle Pedestrian Path Advisory Committee (BikePAC) list of suggested rules for Keene’s forthcoming downtown bike lanes as informational and to move forward with staff drafting a formal ordinance and educational campaign.

Public Works Director Don Lucey summarized key points from state law and the draft ordinance staff prepared. Lucey said many of BikePAC’s recommendations are already covered by state RSA provisions and existing city code (for example, helmet requirements for riders under 16 and general obedience to traffic control devices). Where state law was silent or the committee wanted a local rule, staff proposed a short set of additions for downtown bike lanes and multi-use paths: a 10 mph speed limit in the downtown core, travel in the same direction as the adjacent travel lane where bike lanes are adjacent to roadways, prohibition on stopping/parking in bike lanes or multi-use paths in a manner that obstructs use, requirement that parked bicycles be placed only at bike racks, and require front and rear lights when operated between a half hour after sunset and a half hour before sunrise.

Committee and public discussion focused heavily on enforcement feasibility, education, and safety. Councilors and BikePAC members urged clear signage and robust public education before lanes open. Several councilors and public commenters expressed concern about fast electric bicycles and scooters and whether motorized devices should be allowed on the raised downtown lanes; some councilors asked staff to consider language restricting high-powered motors. Public commenters and some councilors urged signage, trials, and other low-cost mitigations (motion-activated lighting, berm trimming, or fencing in problem areas) to improve safety. Staff said a draft ordinance will be prepared and come back to MSFI and then to City Council for readings; education materials and signage plans will follow ordinance adoption.