Open Space Advisory Board Agenda and Packet 2018 05 09

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Electric Bicycles: City of Durango Staff Summary November 2016 INTRODUCTION The City of Durango is revisiting an ordinance passed in April 2016 that prohibits electric bicycles (e - bikes) on City trails and recreation areas, due to public concerns and comments regarding the usage of e -bikes to assist with mobility -impairments, aging in place and for safety. City staff has compiled this summary and a public presentation to inform and educate the public on the usage of e -bikes, how they compare to traditional bicycles, and with information on electric bicycle technical and safety data. City of Durango Electric Assist and Electric Bike Policy An electric assist or electric bicycle is defined by the City of Durango as tandem wheeled cycle that has an electric motor. The City defines electric bicycles as motorized and therefore allows their use on City property only where other motorized vehicles are allowed. E -bikes are not allowed in the City Open Space, Parks or Trail systems (Source: City of Durango Electric Assist and Electric Bike Policy, by Sara Humphrey, Parks, Open Space, Trail Crew Leader). Background of City Process for Electric Bicycles In April 2016 the City of Durango Code of Ordinances was revised to clarify the language on electric bicycles and other motorized vehicles within City open space, parks and trails systems. The adopted ordinance prohibits the following conditions: Sec. 18-340) To drive or park any motorized vehicle on any park, playground, trail, recreational facility or city owned open space except in an area established and maintained as a public street, driveway or public parking area. The exception would include the authorized use of maintenance and/or emergency response vehicles as well as disabled individuals requiring motorized use for access in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. As used in this section the term "motorized vehicle" shall include motorcycles, motor -driven cycles, motor vehicles, motorscooters, motorbicycles, motorized bicycles, neighborhood electric vehicles and electric bicycles as defined in the Model Traffic Code. Status The issue brought forth by the prohibition of e -bikes on City trails and recreation areas clarifies the requirement that all motorized vehicles, including electric bicycles, may only be utilized on City of Durango streets and bike lanes. Members of the community have requested consideration for the use of e -bikes on City trails as a personal mobility vehicle, for the mobility -impaired, and aging populations. City trails are heavily utilized by residents and visitors and safety concerns have been identified by the community with the proposed introduction of e -bikes on the on the basis of the perceived higher rates of speed on trails and heavier weight in the event of a collision. To assist in further community dialogue regarding the City Council's decision to prohibit e -bikes on City trails and recreation areas, City staff completed research on the benefits of e -bikes, the usage of e -bikes on roads and bicycle pathways, and health and safety information. 1 14