Agenda Item Title:
Second Reading and Recommendation of Ordinance No. 6261 An Ordinance to Amend Rapid City Municipal Code Section 12.24.050 to Allow E-Bikes on City Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Systems
Origination Group:
Legal & Finance Committee
Origination Meeting Date:
05/30/2018
Stage 2 Group Name:
Legal & Finance Committee
Stage 2 Meeting Date:
06/13/2018
City Council Hearing Date:
06/04/2018
City Council First Reading Date:
06/04/2018
City Council Second Reading Date:
06/18/2018
Staff Contact:
Jeff Biegler, Carla Cushman
Agenda Item Summary:
*** The ordinance has been updated from first reading to amend the definition for e-bikes to include the requirement “where the electric motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling.”***
Currently all motorized vehicles are prohibited from the City’s bike and pedestrian trails, with limited exceptions. This ordinance would make a narrow exception for low speed electric bicycles, defined in federal law as bicycles with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 horsepower), whose maximum speed on a paved level surface is less than 20 mph with an average sized operator (170 pounds). These bikes are electric assist bikes, where a user must pedal in order to operate the bike and cannot rely solely on the motor. Allowing these low speed electric bicycles within City parks would permit a wider range of bicycle users to utilize the City’s trail systems, including more citizens who have physical limitations. This ordinance change was initiated by a citizen, and Parks and Recreation staff are in support of the change.
Funding Source & Fiscal Impact (if applicable):
| Funding | Cost Center |
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Recommendations:
City Council Recommendation Action:
Approve
City Council Recommendation Notes:
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board recommended approval of the ordinance at its meeting on May 10, 2018.