Prof. Samantha Clarke
The Luzerne County Flood Protection Authority is set to vote on a policy concerning the use of electric bicycles (e-bikes) on the path atop the Wyoming Valley Levee system. This long-debated issue has raised concerns regarding the safety of pedestrians, especially children and senior citizens, in the event of a collision with an e-bike.
A public forum held last October provided a platform for individuals to express their opinions, leading to a majority opposing a complete ban on e-bikes. As a result, the proposed policy the authority will consider strikes a balance between unrestricted use and an outright ban on e-bikes. This policy prohibits unauthorized motor and battery-powered modes of transportation, including e-bikes, when operated solely under motorized power. However, it does allow the use of e-bikes if the electric motor serves as “pedal-assist” while the cyclist continues to pedal. In such cases, the e-bikes must be operated at a safe speed.
By allowing the responsible use of e-bikes while addressing concerns about excessive speeds and reckless driving, the proposed policy seeks to ensure the safety of all individuals on the levee path. It also recognizes the needs of people with medically confirmed disabilities, permitting the use of motorized or battery-powered wheelchairs or other assistive devices.
Furthermore, the policy clarifies the responsibilities of pedal-powered bicycle riders, highlighting the importance of yielding to pedestrians, passing on the left, traveling at a safe speed, and remaining aware of other users along the trail. Additionally, the authority encourages individuals using the levee path to refrain from using headphones or earbuds, as they may impair their ability to hear potential hazards. Furthermore, to prevent any potential risks, all animals must be strictly controlled on a leash.
To ensure compliance with these regulations, the authority will collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to enforce citations for individuals who create unsafe conditions or cause unwarranted damage.
The authority’s vote on this policy will take place on Tuesday at their headquarters in Forty Fort. By balancing the interests of both e-bike riders and pedestrians, the authority aims to create a safer and more harmonious environment on the Wyoming Valley Levee path.
The Luzerne County Flood Protection Authority’s policy concerning the use of electric bicycles (e-bikes) on the Wyoming Valley Levee system’s path reflects the ongoing debate surrounding the safety of pedestrians. The increasing popularity of e-bikes has raised concerns, particularly regarding collisions with pedestrians, especially children and senior citizens.
A public forum held in October allowed individuals to voice their opinions on the matter. The majority favored not implementing a complete ban on e-bikes. As a result, the proposed policy seeks to strike a balance between unrestricted e-bike usage and an outright ban. The policy prohibits unauthorized motor and battery-powered modes of transportation, including e-bikes, if operated solely under motorized power. However, it allows the use of e-bikes if the electric motor serves as “pedal-assist” while the rider continues to pedal, provided they maintain a safe speed.
By permitting the responsible use of e-bikes and addressing concerns about speed and reckless driving, the proposed policy aims to ensure the safety of all individuals on the levee path. It also takes into account the needs of individuals with medically confirmed disabilities, allowing the use of motorized or battery-powered wheelchairs and other assistive devices.
The policy also outlines the responsibilities of pedal-powered bicycle riders. It emphasizes the importance of yielding to pedestrians, passing on the left, maintaining a safe speed, and being aware of other users along the trail. The authority further encourages individuals using the levee path to avoid using headphones or earbuds, as they may impair their ability to hear potential hazards. Additionally, all animals must be kept on a leash to prevent any potential risks.
To ensure compliance with these regulations, the authority plans to collaborate with local law enforcement agencies. Citations may be issued to individuals who create unsafe conditions or cause unwarranted damage.
The authority’s vote on this policy is scheduled to take place on Tuesday at their headquarters in Forty Fort. By considering the interests of both e-bike riders and pedestrians, the authority aims to establish a safer and more harmonious environment on the Wyoming Valley Levee path.
For more information and updates on the Luzerne County Flood Protection Authority, you can visit their website at www.lcfpa.org.
