By Michael P. Walsh
Special to the Voice
Mayor Dorinda Borer has announced a proposed city ordinance aimed at strengthening the enforcement and regulation of electric propulsion vehicles to ensure pedestrian safety.
The proposed amendment provides guidelines and restrictions on the growing use of electric propulsion vehicles across the city, including on sidewalks and the boardwalk.
The category includes electric bikes, electrically assisted bicycles, motorized stand-up scooters, motorized skateboards, and other high- or low-speed electrically powered vehicles, excluding electric personal assistive mobility devices.
“We have experienced a significant uptick in e-bike and e-scooter usage across the state, and West Haven is no exception,” Borer said. “While we allow e-bikes and e-scooters to be used as a form of modern transportation, they cannot be used recklessly. Therefore, this ordinance restricts usage on the walkable path from Sandy Point to the Charlotte Bacon playground and limits the speed on sidewalks.
“This amendment to the ordinance also now gives our Police Department and shoreline patrol the teeth they need to issue fines and confiscate equipment when riders do not comply. Our goal is to keep our public spaces safe and enjoyable for everyone.”
Police Chief Joseph S. Perno added: “Public safety on our sidewalks and boardwalk is a top priority. This ordinance provides our officers with clear, enforceable rules to hold reckless operators accountable and protect our pedestrians.”
According to Borer’s proposal to the City Council, the amendment would restrict the operation of e-bikes and e-scooters on West Haven sidewalks to a maximum speed of 10 mph and would limit the city’s boardwalk to only allow the motorized vehicles if they are manually peddled or walked.
“I am beyond thrilled that this city ordinance is being considered,” said Councilwoman Nancy Tagliatela, D-2, whose district includes the boardwalk. “Every West Haven citizen as well as the numerous visitors we get should feel safe on our boardwalk.”
Under the proposed amendment, violators would receive a $100 fine for a first offense and a $100 fine for each subsequent violation. Also, police would have the authority to confiscate e-bikes and e-scooters for noncompliance.
If the council enacts the ordinance, the city will post signage along the shoreline displaying the new rules.