Mesa council adopts park rules limiting e‑bike speeds and clarifies motorized-device definitions
Summary
Councilmembers debated definitions, signage and enforcement for shared‑use paths and parks before approving an ordinance that clarifies park rules for e‑bikes and other motorized devices; staff said 5 mph applies in parks and 15 mph on multiuse paths.
The Mesa City Council voted Dec. 8 to adopt an ordinance amending city code sections governing parks and shared‑use paths to clarify the allowed use of electric bikes, scooters and other motorized devices.
David Winstanley, a District 6 resident, told the council he had experienced riders on high‑speed Class 3 e‑bikes and other motorized devices in Eastmark Great Park, called the situation “an accident waiting to happen” and urged clearer language, public education and visible signage. “Class 3 requires you to know what that means,” he said, adding that many residents would not recognize statutory classifications and suggesting a 15 mph limit on some paths.
Councilmembers discussed legal definitions drawn from state statute, how to present those definitions in more accessible signage, and enforcement challenges — particularly for groups of young riders and for vehicles that visually resemble motorcycles. A staff member noted the ordinance preserves a 5 mph limit in parks while allowing a 15 mph limit on multiuse shared-use paths; staff said code language tracks statutory definitions to preserve uniform enforcement, but that additional public-facing explanatory language and signage could be developed.
Some councilmembers expressed concern that education and signage might not fully address youth behavior and enforcement-resource limits; one member said they were not comfortable supporting the item but acknowledged the council could amend the ordinance later. The vote recorded at least one 'no' (Councilmember Adams) and the mayor announced the ordinance passed.
The ordinance’s immediate effect is to add clarity in city code about which vehicles are allowed where and to provide enforcement tools for police; staff said future amendments and an education campaign could follow to improve public understanding.
Next steps: staff to develop signage and public education materials and the council indicated willingness to consider amendments if enforcement or public-comprehension problems persist.
