New Albany adopts emergency ordinance regulating e-bikes, scooters and shared-path speeds

The New Albany City Council on Oct. 21 adopted an amended emergency ordinance (O 40-20-25) that revises the city’s traffic code to define shared-use paths and sidewalks, set a default 10‑mile‑per‑hour speed for sidewalks and shared-use paths unless otherwise posted, and update rules for electric bicycles, powered scooters and higher‑powered “e‑dirt” bikes. The council voted 6–0 to declare the ordinance an emergency and to adopt it immediately.

The ordinance clarifies definitions for shared-use paths and sidewalks, establishes separate treatment for class 1, 2 and 3 e-bikes (including where each class may be used), creates new text governing powered scooters, and gives the city flexibility to notify users by signs, pavement markings or other methods. Police and legal staff recommended language that both preserves a 10 mph baseline in pedestrian areas and allows the city to post different speeds where appropriate.

“Once these ordinances become official…we have to move to how we’re going to post this and notify users,” said Chief Jones during the second-reading presentation, explaining that the change lets the city choose signs, pavement markings or other notice to users and that enforcement will include an initial education period followed by citations when necessary. Chief Jones also explained distinctions among e-bike classes, saying class 1 and 2 are generally limited to 20 mph and may be allowed on shared-use paths, while class 3 devices (higher-assist top speeds) should be restricted to roads.

Public commenters urged a mix of education and regulation. “We are not here to be rowdy,” said Sajid Mahajan, representing a group of teenagers, arguing that education and certification — not outright bans — would let young riders be safe and legal. Scott Billman urged stronger city leadership on safety, including lights, reflectors and volunteer ambassadors to help educate users. Several residents and speakers suggested treating vehicles above a horsepower or wattage threshold more like motor vehicles, a point that drew discussion among council and staff about enforceability.

Council members debated whether to remove a fixed 10 mph standard in favor of only posting speeds, and ultimately moved to retain a 10 mph default for sidewalks/shared-use paths but add the phrase “unless otherwise posted.” The council also approved Chief Jones’ recommended language clarifying how the city determines where a posted prohibition applies. After amending the ordinance, the council voted to declare it an emergency (waiving the 30‑day referendum period) and then adopted it.

The mayor and city staff committed to prompt public outreach, including signage and education with schools and enforcement that will begin with warnings before moving to citations. “We’ll continue our communications efforts with the community, make sure they understand the standards and obligations moving forward,” the mayor said after the vote.

What’s next: staff will develop a signage plan for posted speeds, coordinate education with schools and community groups, and police will phase enforcement to allow an education period. The council directed staff to return with further implementation details and to continue public messaging.