Board asks staff to draft Traffic Code amendments for e-bikes and 'motorized play vehicles'

City staff and police outlined gaps in the Traffic Code that leave some motorized devices unregulated. Community Development Director Amy Starck gave the e-bike classification overview — "Class 1: pedal assist only, maximum speed of 20mph; Class 2: pedal assist and throttle, maximum speed of 20mph for both functions; Class 3: pedal assist and throttle, maximum speed of 28mph for pedal assist and maximum speed of 20mph for throttle" — and staff proposed a new definition for "Motorized Play Vehicles" to capture pocket bikes, mini-motorcycles, motorized skateboards, hoverboards and similar devices.

Discussion included enforcement practicality, whether sidewalk riding should be restricted in residential areas, and whether definitions would be future‑proof for new technologies. Alderwoman Jokerst voiced concern about sidewalk restrictions; Alderman Lange moved to forward drafting the proposed code amendments to the August committee meeting and the motion passed unanimously.