“I’m just glad we are having this discussion.”
East Grand Rapids Commissioner Kate Skaggs says she does not know what the city’s ultimate e-bike policy will be, but it’s time to set one.
“Before a kid gets really hurt or is fatally injured.”
City Manager Shea Charles says because the use of electric scooters and bikes is increasing:
“Our primary concern really is our younger riders.”
And there are currently no ordinances clearly regulating their use, he thinks the city commission should make some decisions on their safe operation during the coming cold weather months.
“Anticipate the use of these devices will decline dramatically as we get into winter, so we want to be ready in early spring.”
So far this school year Charles says there have been three minor collisions between e-mobility devices and vehicles in East Grand Rapids, but resident Jerry Anderson says he has seen some close calls.
“I’ve witnessed some near misses and been really scared with what’s going on with the E-bikes.”
And commissioner Laura Schwartz:
“I’ve had to pick up my toddler and swing them into the grass because someone goes zipping by on a E-scooter.”
Operator education, incentives and new bike lanes could be elements in the city’s E-mobility policy.
“We are not talking an outright ban, correct?
“Not to my knowledge.”
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