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Highland Park Bans Electric Scooters and Bikes from Public Areas

Electric scooters and bikes have become popular modes of transportation in Chicagoland and beyond. Highland Park recently made a decision to ban these vehicles from parks, paths, and other public areas, sparking a wave of backlash.

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The city council of Highland Park voted 6-1 in favor of amendments to traffic laws that restrict electric bikes and scooters to be operated only on roads. These amendments also introduced age restrictions, requiring riders to be over 16 for e-bikes and over 18 for e-scooters.

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While the new regulations aim to address safety concerns associated with these vehicles, not all residents are in agreement. Some feel that the restrictions go against the city’s commitment to being bike-friendly and connected.

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Local communities have been grappling with issues related to e-scooters and e-bikes, leading to the passing of a state law in 2024 that imposed age restrictions and safety requirements. Highland Park’s regulations were crafted after studying similar codes in neighboring towns.

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The decision to ban electric vehicles from public areas came after several incidents involving these vehicles, including accidents resulting in injuries and even fatalities. Concerns over safety risks to pedestrians and other trail users were cited as reasons for the restrictions.

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One resident, Emily Showell-Rouse, expressed frustration over the new regulations as they impact her ability to use her e-bike for transporting her children around the city. She emphasized the lack of dedicated bike lanes in Highland Park and the challenges of sharing the road with cars.

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City officials are considering implementing fines for violators of the new regulations and are open to feedback for potential modifications in the future. The response on social media has been mixed, with some criticizing the city for what they perceive as excessive regulation.

Showell-Rouse highlighted the importance of e-bikes for individuals with physical limitations and stressed the need for alternative solutions that balance safety concerns with accessibility.

As the debate continues, Highland Park faces the challenge of balancing public safety with the evolving landscape of transportation options in the community. The city will need to navigate these complexities while ensuring the well-being of residents and promoting sustainable modes of travel.

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