EDAC to explore e-bike rules, trails and walkability as safety concerns grow

Committee members told the Economic Development Advisory Committee that e-bike riding, trail access and general walkability have become pressing public-safety and quality-of-life concerns.

"As it stands now, our current ordinances do not address e bikes," the council liaison told the group, and members said the community needs clarity on what is legal and what police will enforce. One member urged the committee to invite the police chief to explain current laws and enforcement priorities so the committee can plan physical infrastructure and ordinances accordingly.

Members discussed potential approaches: designated bike and golf-cart routes, safety courses coordinated by the Chamber and police, and negotiating easements or public-private partnerships to connect trails. Multiple members warned that many trails cross private property and that enforcement or signage changes could push riders elsewhere; the committee emphasized outreach to private landowners and exploring volunteer or nonprofit models to steward trails.

Speakers recommended involving Parks & Rec and the PRAC liaison and suggested forming a subcommittee to refine proposals and coordinate across city committees. Committee members also discussed funding sources including "hot funds," grants and partnership-based models for trail improvements and sidewalks to improve safety for children and other vulnerable road users.

The committee did not adopt specific ordinances at the meeting; instead members asked staff to bring more information, including legal/enforcement guidance from police and examples from other communities, to a future agenda.