Two local governments are weighing whether to consider restrictions on electric-assisted or motorized bicycles and scooters in some areas of Fairbanks.
The Fairbanks North Star Borough Parks and Recreation Commission discussed the option of making Pioneer Park/Alaskaland and other facilities non-motorized spaces on Monday.
Lee Williams, the Parks and Recreation riverside superintendent, said pedestrian safety is the biggest concern.
“Many of these devices operate at higher speeds than walking traffic and operate quietly, making it difficult for pedestrians to detect them sometimes,” Williams said.
Williams said e-bikes, scooters and e-motos are split into five classifications. Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are either pedal-assisted or throttle-powered with top speeds of 20 miles per hour. A Class 3 e-bike can hit 28 MPH, while an e-scooter has a throttle speed of up to 25 MPH. A fully motorized bicycle, or e-moto, can hit at least 30 MPH.
“While they may all look similar … their impact on our facilities varies significantly,” Williams said. He said increased use of the devices has reduced a sense of safety for families and children. Parks and Recreation has received numerous complaints, including phone calls, emails and social media messages about the issue.
“The theme is a fear of potential injury and a strong request for us to take action,” Williams said.
Williams added he’s already observed damage to facilities as e-bike riders use them off designated routes, including rutting and damage to baseball fields and playground equipment.
Williams said his staff is monitoring the complaints and impacts, coordinating with the Fairbanks Police Department and reviewing best practices from other communities.
Technically, the higher-powered devices are also prohibited on non-motorized pedestrian/bicycle trails.
Pioneer Park already has a 5 MPH speed limit, but Williams said it can be difficult to enforce. The current recommendation includes a pilot program by designating Pioneer Park as a seasonal non-motorized area. All higher-speed motorized e-bikes, e-motos and scooters would be banned in the park.
“We get a lot of feedback on how this should be a pedestrian area,” he said. Normal bikes would be allowed, provided they are operated safely.
Williams later clarified he doesn’t want to give the perception that Parks and Recreation is attacking e-bikes.
“We’re trying to manage e-bikes and the changing technology,” Williams said. He added he doesn’t think most young people who own them are intentionally damaging facilities. He stressed education is another goal.
Mark Oldmixon, the commission chair, said he’s aware that e-bike conflicts are an evolving issue across the country. He added that there is a strong contingent who passionately disagree with concerns similar to Williams.
Commissioner Ken Barrick said he supports a seasonal ban for Pioneer Park. He added he witnessed two e-bike riders doing “wheelies” in front of the miniature golf area at Pioneer Park.
Other commissioners proposed finding ways to “welcome e-bike riders into other areas,” such as parts of Tanana Lakes Recreation Area.
Matt Boyer, the Parks and Recreation Director, agreed with the premise.
“The bikes are there, and we need to find an outlet to go recreate safely,” Boyer said. “It may come to a point where we have to channel that activity.”
E-bike concerns were addressed at a Fairbanks City Council work session on Tuesday as well.
Councilmember Jerry Cleworth said he doesn’t know where policies stand with regulating e-bikes when compared to gas-powered versions.
Member John Ringstad had similar concerns, adding that higher-speed ones aren’t licensed, insured or registered.
FPD Deputy Chief Rick Sweet noted that regulations can be difficult. The Alaska Legislature considered a bill in 2023 that would have defined e-bike classifications. However, the bill died in committee.
“The DMV does not require a license, registration or insurance,” Sweet said. “In essence, it is a bicycle without a further definition.”
Had they been classified as motorized scooters, state law would require a specialized permit and parental signatures for youth.
However, Sweet said state law allows cities and municipalities to regulate e-bikes on a local level. He added he’s seen both respectful groups riding e-bikes and “abuses as well.”
Police Chief Ron Dupee said FPD has received several complaints and has its own safety concerns over e-bikes. He asked for guidance from the City Council on how far we want to go with regulating.”
Dupee recommended some provisions, such as speed limit enforcement or restrictions on sidewalks.
A few councilmembers, including Crystal Tidwell proposed a balance that didn’t restrict young adults while prioritizing safety. She acknowledged that there are “some disrespectful kids out there and that’s a parenting problem.” Valerie Therrien recommended asking state lawmakers for a legislative solution.
Lonney Marney, however, supported a local solution.
“As a city, we tag team with the borough to get this done soon, this summer,” Marney said.
Fairbanks Mayor Mindy O’Neall stressed that the council consider the difference between lower level e-bikes and the higher-speed ones.