Town adopts electric scooter law; residents debate whether e-bikes will be allowed on recreation trail

Riverhead — On June 16 the Town Board adopted a local law to amend Chapter 213 (Bicycles and Electric Scooters), Article 2, on electric scooters.

The board moved and voted unanimously to adopt resolution 620, which changes the town code language governing electric scooters and related devices. Several members praised the police department and staff for the drafting.

Public comment during the meeting focused on the practical implications for the Epcow/EPCAL recreation trail. George Bartick (Calverton) and other residents said they feared the change could be interpreted to allow Class 2 e-bikes on the trail, which was developed for non-motorized use and has sharp turns and safety constraints.

Town counsel and staff responded that an existing provision in Chapter 211-26 (prohibiting engine-operated means of transportation on recreation trails except law enforcement) remains in effect, and that adopting the Chapter 213 amendment would not itself override the trail prohibition. Staff said the existing code language continues to restrict engines on the trail, preserving current trail rules while leaving open future evaluation.

Residents asked the board to consider targeted infrastructure improvements (e.g., softer curves or grants to realign segments) if the town later allows electric-assist devices for seniors or people with mobility limitations. Officials said any such future changes would require separate policy discussion and possible physical upgrades to the trail.

What happens next: The local law amending Chapter 213 was adopted. Questions about trail access remain procedural and will require separate action to change trail-specific prohibitions if the board chooses to pursue them.