Erie police outline education-first approach to e-bike safety as calls rise

Police Chief Lee Mathis gave the council a briefing on e‑bike education and enforcement, saying the department’s approach emphasizes community outreach and targeted enforcement rather than punitive action.

Mathis said the department began outreach last November with a flyer included in utility bills and that school resource officers distributed about 1,500 flyers to students. The town has promoted Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) parent education resources, partnered with local groups such as Erie Youth for Change at public events, and used social media and weekly recaps to explain what e‑bike classes are allowed where: Class 1–3 on roadways and Class 1–2 on trails and sidewalks under the town ordinance.

"We don't go more than one day without getting two to three calls a day on use on e‑bikes," Mathis told council, adding the majority of contacts have resulted in warnings and education, with citations reserved for repeat or risky offenders. Mathis said directed enforcement activities are planned this summer and that officers will avoid endangering youth by chasing riders.

Council members asked about hot spots (pump track, skate park, open space and ball fields), the role of retail stores in labeling and advising customers, and whether the department involves parents when officers contact youth. Mathis said officers attempt to contact parents after an encounter and that in extreme repeat cases a parent could face a citation under the ordinance.

The chief also noted a recent very serious e‑bike crash that left a young person severely injured but surviving; he used the incident to underscore the department’s goal of combining education with selective enforcement to reduce the risk of collisions with cars and pedestrians.

The council welcomed the planned outreach at community events (July 3 fireworks, National Night Out) and encouraged continued coordination with schools and youth groups.