The Woodlands board to convene stakeholders after heated debate on e-bikes and e-scooters

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors voted July 17 to hold a special board meeting to convene school districts, county officials, law enforcement, EMS and other stakeholders to discuss safety and enforcement for e-bikes and e-scooters on local pathways.

The decision followed a lengthy discussion of a staff proposal for a multifaceted “Respect the Path” education campaign and more than an hour of public comment about collisions and near-misses on the township’s trail network. Leanne Peterson, director of communications, told the board the campaign’s immediate aim was education — not to change the township’s current park order, which prohibits motorized vehicles on pathways. “This is step 1,” she said, and described an eight- to 12-month rollout of peer-focused content, signage and school outreach.

But several directors and public speakers said education alone would be insufficient while the devices remain widespread. Resident William Mosley urged the board to “do everything you can to keep motorized vehicles off of the pathways,” saying the quiet, fast scooters have surprised pedestrians and created safety hazards. Other directors and staff described discussions already under way with Conroe Independent School District, EMS and Montgomery County.

Board members attempted two competing formal actions during the agenda item. A motion by Chairman Paul Bailey to begin a community-focused safety video series addressing e-bike and e-scooter use (including helmet and etiquette guidance) failed on a voice vote. Later, the board voted to convene a special meeting as soon as possible to bring stakeholders together and gather input; the motion carried.

Township staff and board members described several near-term steps they are preparing: targeted school outreach, focus groups of 9–14 year olds to refine peer messaging, signage emphasizing “stay right, pass left” and boosted social media aimed at parents. Staff said they can withhold the larger public campaign until the board gives direction about whether the park order will remain in place or be changed; if the board later allows motorized devices on pathways, staff said they would add materials that show safe use while sidewalk/street alternatives are considered.

Directors emphasized enforcement and liability as unresolved questions. Several board members asked whether the township can use interlocal agreements with neighboring municipalities or the county to allow local police or deputized rangers to issue warnings or citations. Staff said sheriff and constable offices told them they could enforce an ordinance if commissioners adopt one, but noted limited deputy resources to patrol 220 miles of trails.

The board directed staff to schedule the special meeting and to continue staff-level coordination with partners so stakeholders arrive with positions and resource constraints already identified. The special meeting will aim to surface enforcement options, school-district policies, EMS data on injuries and potential funding or interlocal mechanisms.