Town staff established an E-Bike Workgroup to evaluate challenges associated with increasing use of e-bikes in Prescott Valley. The workgroup was tasked with:

• Discussing local e-bike safety and use concerns;
• Reviewing Arizona law and regulations adopted by other municipalities;
• Gathering community input; and
• Identifying a balanced path forward for the Town.

So far this year, the Town has experienced five reported e-bike-related accidents (increasing the need to evaluate safety, education, infrastructure, and regulatory options).

The workgroup has reviewed local concerns (including a community e-bike survey), and researched regulations in other communities. The survey results identified several recurring themes, including rider education, trail etiquette, signage, speed, safety, infrastructure, and the need to distinguish between different classes of e-bikes. The survey indicated that e-bikes are used for a variety of purposes, but the primary use is for recreation, leisure, and exercise. Of survey respondents, 88% supported requiring riders under age 16 to wear helmets, 70% supported a speed limit for e-bikes on shared public paths, sidewalks, and trails (and 43% selected 15 mph as the speed limit while 27% selected 20 mph as the speed limit).

Survey comments differed regarding regulation. But education, safety awareness, and trail etiquette were recurring themes. Respondents also expressed interest in improved bicycle infrastructure and connectivity.

DRAFT TOWN CODE
The Workgroup has developed a draft Town Code provision for Town Council review and discussion. Key aspects include:

• Definitions for Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3 electric bicycles;
• Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes permitted on sidewalks, bicycle lanes, roadways, and multi-use paths;
• Class 3 e-bikes permitted on bicycle lanes and roadways (but not sidewalks or multi-use paths);
• Ability to prohibit devices on specific sidewalks or multi-use paths through posted signage;
• Requirement to yield to pedestrians and provide an audible signal when passing;
• Requirement to generally operate at a reasonable and prudent speed (and comply with specific posted speed limits);
• Requirement of helmets for riders under 18;
• Parent/guardian responsibility for minors; and
• Civil traffic penalties for violations (except where otherwise provided).  Penalty range suggested between $25.00 and $75.00.

The Town Code provision is intended to provide a clear regulatory framework while recognizing that different types of e-bikes have different capabilities and uses.

WORKGROUP RECOMMENDATION
The Workgroup recognizes the value of establishing clear regulations, but strongly believes education (including signage) should be the priority for addressing e-bike-related issues.

• Public education and outreach;
• Trail etiquette and shared-use messaging;
• Clear and consistent signage; and
• Established rules.

Proactive education can help prevent unsafe behavior while providing residents with a clear understanding of where and how e-bikes may be operated.
 

N/A - Discussion Only; No Action Requested.

N/A - Discussion Only; No Action Requested.

There is no anticipated direct fiscal impact due to the requested action.

Future costs associated with education, signage, enforcement, or implementation of any adopted regulations would be brought forward through the appropriate budget process, if necessary.