Peekskill to hold public hearing on e-bikes and scooters after council debates sidewalk rules and age limits

The council discussed proposed local-law language to regulate scooters, e-bikes and other electric devices and agreed to set a public hearing so members of the public can weigh in on sidewalk riding, helmet rules and BID (downtown) exceptions.

The city attorney summarized the existing code and how the new e-device language interacts with prior bicycle and inline-skate rules. "We're not going to allow any e bikes, electric, you know, electric scooters, any type of electric vehicle on sidewalks. Those are gonna have to be walked," the city attorney said, noting that the draft law would prohibit electric devices on sidewalks while council must decide whether pedal bikes and inline skates remain permitted in parts of the city not listed in the BID provision.

Council members raised enforcement and safety concerns in the downtown BID where outdoor dining and heavy foot traffic make sidewalk riding hazardous. Several members suggested raising the age at which children may ride on sidewalks from 10 to 12 or 14; others urged a clear carve-out to keep pedal bikes off the BID streets entirely.

The council heard questions about helmets (the draft requires helmets for e-devices and staff said existing law already addresses certain age-based bicycle helmet requirements) and enforcement practicalities; staff reiterated that the public hearing is the opportunity to gather input and that the law can be revised after the hearing.

Why it matters: The rules would affect how residents and visitors use sidewalks and public space downtown, influence enforcement practices and shape safety for pedestrians and device users alike.

Next step: Council set the resolution to schedule a public hearing and invited public comment before finalizing the local law.