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E-Bikes: Summary of Actions & Potential Next Steps Connectivity Subcommittee: October 7, 2025 E-Bikes in Chandler: Actions Taken & Future Options Purpose • Summarize actions taken to address e-bike regulations on canal and city trails. • Propose potential next steps for policy, education, and enforcement. Key Areas • Legal Framework & Clarifications • Education & Outreach Efforts • Enforcement Actions • Potential New Options E-Bike Classifications Definitions of E-Bike Classes • Class 1: Pedal-assist only, no throttle, max speed 20 mph. • Class 2: Throttle-assisted, max speed 20 mph, may also have pedal-assist. • Class 3: Pedal-assist only, no throttle, max speed 28 mph. Key Notes • Arizona law permits Class 1 & 2 on shared-use paths unless locally restricted. • Class 3 often restricted due to higher speeds. Legal Framework & Clarifications Federal Oversight on Canal Trails • Owned by U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, managed by SRP. • Federal regulations prohibit all e-bikes and e-scooters, regardless of motor use. City Enforcement Role • City collaborates with SRP to enforce restrictions. • SRP serves as complainant in formal actions. State vs. Federal Law • Arizona permits Class 1 & 2 e-bikes on shared-use paths unless locally restricted. • Federal rules supersede on canal paths. ADA Considerations • E-bikes not recognized as required mobility devices under federal guidance. Enforcement Challenges Jurisdictional Complexity • Canal trails: Federal oversight (Bureau of Reclamation/SRP) vs. City enforcement • City must collaborate with SRP, who serves as complainant in formal actions • Federal rules supersede state law on canal paths Limited Enforcement Tools • Unlike vehicles, bicycles lack registration/license plates for identification • Trail cameras ineffective due to inability to identify riders from footage • Speed detection technology has limited enforcement value without registration system Resource Intensive • April 2023 through July 7, 2025: 337 calls for service (32 originated from officers or anonymous/citizen 305 were generated from single complainant) • Requires dedicated patrol presence and coordination between agencies Enforcement Challenges Classification & Detection Issues • Difficult to distinguish between Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes during patrol • E-bikes can operate without motor engaged, making violations harder to identify • Mixed-use trails create complex enforcement scenarios with pedestrians and cyclists Discretionary Enforcement Challenges • Seniors and individuals with mobility limitations rely on e-bikes for recreation and exercise • Difficulty distinguishing between recreational users and violations • Creates enforcement dilemma: strict compliance vs. community access to trails Scale of Problem • Multiple trail systems across city requiring coverage • Educational efforts ongoing but enforcement remains challenging Enforcement Efforts - Actions Taken (2024–2025) Fall 2024: • Police Team 16 pop-up events to educate trail users. April 2025: • Traffic trailers displayed educational messages along canals. • Ongoing: Citywide messaging via social media, CityScope, ChandlerAZ.gov, and bike map. • Signage: Posted along canal trails (e.g., Paseo Trail) prohibiting motorized vehicles. August 2025: • Arizona College Prep High School Informational Night (Thursday, August 21st from 7:00-8:00 p.m.) • Chandler PD presents laws and enforcement capabilities of e-bike violations • Collaborative social media campaign between CAPA & CPD E-Bike Restrictions in Other Jurisdictions Key Takeaway • Chandler’s proposed restrictions align with regional trends, particularly sidewalk and age restrictions for Class 3 e-bikes. Potential New Options – Policy & Regulatory Consistent Local Ordinance for Non-SRP Trails • Prohibit Class 3 e-bikes • Recommended: Ensures clarity and consistency. Sidewalk Restrictions for E-Bikes • Prohibit Class 3 e-bikes on sidewalks. • Recommended: Aligns with Scottsdale, Mesa, and Phoenix policies. Youth Restrictions for E-Bikes • Limit Class 3 e-bike usage to Age 16+. • Require helmets under at 18. • Recommended: Aligns with some other East Valley cities. Designated E-Bike Zones/Hours • Pilot areas or hours for Class 1 & 2 e-bikes on non-canal trails. • Not Recommended: Short, dispersed trails make this confusing. Trail Speed Limits • Enforce 10–15 mph limits on city trails. • Not Recommended: Limited impact, adds complexity. Potential New Options – Education & Engagement Enhanced Public Awareness Campaign • Launch updated campaign with videos, maps, infographics, and trail rules. School-Based Safety Programs • Partner with schools to teach e-bike safety, targeting teens. • Requires additional resources. Trail Etiquette Ambassador Program • Train volunteers/staff to educate riders and report violations Potential New Options – Enforcement & Infrastructure QR Code Trail Signs • Install signs with QR codes linking to e-bike rules guide. Rules Reminder Signs • Place at high-use trailheads/parking areas to reinforce rules. Trail Cameras/Smart Detection • Deploy in high-traffic areas to monitor speed. • Not Recommended: Limited enforcement value due to lack of bike registration. Traffic Calming at Trail Access Points • Add rumble strips, speed humps, or narrowing elements. • Use Selectively: Broad use may hinder responsible riders. Pedestrian-Priority Zones • Use painted lanes or textured surfaces. Recommendations Summary Recommended Actions Adopt local ordinance for non-SRP trails (prohibit Class 3). Restrict Class 3 e -bikes on sidewalks and for youth (16+ only). Enhance public awareness with updated campaign. Install QR code signs and rules reminders at trailheads. Proceed with Caution School programs and ambassador program (resource-intensive). Selective traffic calming at trail access points. Not Recommended Designated e-bike zones/hours, trail speed limits, cameras, pedestrian- priority zones. Next Steps Short-Term: Implement recommended ordinances and signage. Medium-Term: Launch enhanced awareness campaign and explore school programs. Long-Term: Evaluate effectiveness of new measures and adjust enforcement strategies. Stakeholder Engagement: Continue collaboration with SRP, schools, and community. E-Bikes: Summary of Actions & Potential Next Steps Connectivity Subcommittee: October 7, 2025