The Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission discussed whether to post speed limits on shared-use paths and how to address faster e‑bikes at its Oct. 7 meeting.

Commission members opened the discussion after a written comment suggested a speed limit; one commissioner said 15 mph would be appropriate for trail conditions. Commissioners and staff noted enforcement would be difficult without an ordinance backing posted limits. "You could post a speed limit without having an ordinance to back it up," one commissioner said, calling that approach "a toothless speed limit." Another said most riders use devices that record speed—"Garmins and speedometers"—but that enforcement by police remains a major concern.

The commission repeatedly framed the issue as both technical and behavioral: speakers emphasized path etiquette, signage and education as first steps. "It's almost like it's a part of just being a good pathway user," the chair said, urging courtesy toward pedestrians, strollers and dog walkers.

Members also discussed the varieties of e‑bikes and existing state classifications, noting class 1 and 2 e‑bikes can reach about 20 mph and class 3 up to about 28 mph, and that some devices fall outside those classes and go substantially faster. Commissioners agreed the e‑bike subcommittee should refine recommended language, review other municipalities' ordinances and propose a community‑engagement process and legal review before asking the township board to act.

The subcommittee reported an Oct. 3 meeting that included police and fire chiefs and the supervisor; staff and commissioners said they will return next month with specific proposals, draft ordinance language and suggestions for resident input and outreach.

Next steps: the commission will ask the e‑bike subcommittee to produce a recommendation, outline community outreach and coordinate a legal review before presenting a proposal to the township board.