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Maricopa council discusses code changes to allow certain e-bikes on sidewalks, tighten midblock crossings and consider helmets for riders under 18
Summary
Police Chief Goodman presented three proposed code amendments to shift to behavior‑based sidewalk rules that would allow pedal‑assisted e‑bikes and scooters while prioritizing pedestrians; council members asked for public education and proposed requiring helmets for riders under 17. No final ordinance vote occurred; staff will work with the city attorney to draft code language.
Police Chief Goodman presented proposed city code amendments on March 3 intended to modernize sidewalk and pedestrian rules to reflect growth in e‑bikes, scooters and other low‑power mobility devices while prioritizing pedestrian safety.
Chief Goodman said the proposal includes three main changes: (1) move from a strict location‑based prohibition to behavior‑based sidewalk standards that would allow bicycles, pedal‑assisted e‑bikes, e‑scooters and similar devices while prohibiting gas‑powered vehicles and preserving pedestrian priority; operators would be required to ride at reasonable and prudent speeds and yield to pedestrians; (2) restrict midblock pedestrian crossings where marked crosswalks or signalized intersections exist and allow midblock crossings only when no reasonable alternative exists and the crossing is perpendicular and shortest route; and (3) prohibit standing, lingering or stopping in vehicular lanes and restrict waiting in painted or raised medians unless the pedestrian signal or design allows safe waiting.
Council members and the chief discussed enforcement and education. Chief Goodman and councilors said voluntary compliance should be the first step, paired with robust public education and school partnerships; the police traffic unit will develop outreach including classroom materials and Motor Monday safety demonstrations. Council members emphasized training, age‑appropriate requirements and clearer expectations for parents.
Several council members expressed support for a helmet requirement for younger riders. Chief Goodman suggested adding a code line requiring helmets for people under 17; multiple council members volunteered to pursue that change and asked staff and the city attorney to draft language.
Public commenters raised pedestrian safety concerns earlier in the meeting: Tina Dugan urged lower speed limits near Porter Road schools and targeted enforcement in the Walmart/Glennwilde area, citing recent collisions and one fatality.
Next steps: Chief Goodman will work with the city attorney to draft proposed code language including any age‑based helmet requirements and return it to council for formal consideration and possible ordinance action.
