Erie adopts e‑bike ordinance setting trail speed limit, labeling and education plan

The Erie Town Council on Jan. 27 adopted a new ordinance adding section 6‑11‑20 to the municipal code to regulate electric‑assisted bicycles on town trails and roadways. Mayor Moore opened discussion and Chief Lee Mathis described enforcement plans and the ordinance’s classifications.

Mathis told council officers will enforce the ordinance when staffing allows and that the department already operates class‑2 e‑bikes for patrol. He summarized the classifications: "Class 1 and 2 e‑bikes are bikes that go below 25 miles an hour and are allowed on trails and sidewalks. Class 3 are bikes that go up to 28 miles an hour and they are allowed on the roadway," and noted the ordinance sets a 15 mph speed limit on trails enforceable with radar or lidar.

Staff and council emphasized outreach and signage. Transportation staff discussed using clear graphics, posting the ordinance text at trail entry points and temporary signs for problem locations. Chief Mathis said enforcement will be "education first" and citations after a period of outreach and public notice; the town also can authorize non‑sworn staff to issue warnings or citations for noncriminal violations.

Council members raised questions about labeling and interjurisdictional consistency. The town attorney noted state law (Title 42) requires manufacturers to include specific labeling for class designations; staff said un‑labeled e‑bikes will be treated as not lawful for trail use. Several councilors suggested working groups or school partnerships for education.

After discussion the council moved and adopted the ordinance. Mayor Moore said signage and outreach plans will be developed and that enforcement will ramp up after an initial education period.