FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. – Fernandina Beach city commissioners took up a proposed e-bike ordinance Tuesday night in a first reading, sparking debate over safety, enforcement, and the growing popularity of electric bicycles.
The ordinance would impose a 10-mph speed limit for bicycles and electric bicycles on sidewalks, trails and paths, and a 20-mph speed limit on roadways.
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Commissioner Tim Poynter raised concerns about public safety, saying the current lack of regulation is putting residents at risk.
“They’re flying down the streets, they’re not stopping at stop signs. I’m worried someone’s going to get killed,” Poynter said.
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Commissioner Joyce Tuten expressed support for the ordinance, framing it as a necessary response to a fast-changing transportation landscape.
“I think this is great. It’s a new technology that is exploding, and we need new rules,” Tuten said.
Tuten also acknowledged the challenges ahead when it comes to putting the rules into practice.
“I think enforcement will be extremely difficult, but I think we have to start somewhere,” Tuten said.
As a first reading, the ordinance has not yet been adopted. A second reading and vote would be required before it becomes law.