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Fort Thomas council holds first reading of bike-and-scooter sidewalk ordinance amid safety, enforcement debate
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Summary
At a first reading April 20, Fort Thomas council reviewed an ordinance that would bar electric bicycles and high‑speed electric scooters from sidewalks citywide (with business‑district and low‑speed clarifications discussed). Speakers urged clearer definitions, enforcement plans and education before a second reading.
Fort Thomas city council held a first reading April 20 of a proposed change to Chapter 74 that would prohibit electric bicycles and high‑speed electric scooters from operating on sidewalks within city limits, drawing a lengthy public discussion about safety, enforceability and alternatives.
The ordinance language presented at first reading says, in part, “no person shall ride an electric bicycle or a high‑speed electric scooter on the sidewalk within the city.” Council members and staff explained that existing code already bans riding bicycles on sidewalks in the business district; the proposed change would add high‑speed e‑scooters to that restriction and clarify where lower‑speed devices could be permitted.
Why it matters: Residents and parents said the city must avoid an outcome that pushes children into vehicle lanes. A parent and practicing therapist urged council to “consider whether this ordinance…moves us closer to that goal or further away,” citing recent local enforcement numbers and warning that forcing riders into streets may increase risk.
Supporters of pedestrian safety and several council members suggested the city needs clearer technical definitions and an outreach plan before the measure advances. Multiple speakers recommended adopting nationally used class definitions for e‑bikes (class 1–3) or a speed threshold rather than a catchall phrase; others proposed a business‑district “walk‑your‑wheels” rule so that sidewalks remain a buffer zone in high‑pedestrian areas.
Enforcement and helmets: Citizens and councilors debated enforceability—how officers would distinguish a high‑speed scooter from a low‑speed device and whether fines or graduated penalties are practical. Several residents urged a parallel education campaign, helmet requirements for younger riders and the gradual addition of protected bike lanes to provide safe roadway alternatives.
Council next steps: Staff and councilors said they will post a marked‑up (redlined) draft of the ordinance for review, pursue stakeholder meetings (including town halls and subject‑matter experts), and consider edits ahead of a second reading. At the meeting, council proceeded with a first reading rather than delaying introduction, noting that language can be revised before final passage.
A member of the public summed up a common view: the city should “do this right” — define devices by speed and class, produce clear language that matches enforcement capabilities, and combine policy changes with education and infrastructure plans to protect both pedestrians and riders.
