HMB Bike Ped Advisory Committee (BPAC) Considers E-Bike Rules with No Funding for Enforcement

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VIDEO. From the City of Half Moon Bay Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) meeting on Thursday, March 3rd, 2022 at 6:30pm by Zoom.

Disclosure: I was on the HMB BPAC Committee for 4 years, 2016-2020, and I commented several times throughout the meeting. Note that the City of Half Moon Bay’s Coastal Trail paved jurisdiction goes only from Poplar St. to Kelly Avenue. 

~ Michelle Dragony, Chief Buzz Officer of Coastside Buzz.

 

Agenda for Thurs. March 3rd, 2022 at 6:30pm by Zoom

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“Prohibitions. Class 3 electric bicycles may not be operated on any paved or unpaved path or trail including, but not limited to all portions of the California Coastal Trail, Naomi Patridge Trail and the Eastside Parallel Trail.”

“Exceptions. The operation of a motorized scooter is permitted on private land, private roadways, or private easements by the owners or the members of the owner’s family of such roadway or easement.”

 

 


 

 

HMB Bike and Ped Advisory Committee Addresses E-Bikes on the Coastal Trail

Recommendation

Receive an update on electric bicycle use on City trails and provide comments for consideration.

Background

When electric bicycles (e-bikes) were introduced, most municipal and parks agencies categorized them as motorized vehicles and prohibited them on trails along with traditional motorized vehicles and devices like scooters and motorcycles.

In recent years, e-bike advocates have worked with manufacturers and land managers to improve relations and general acceptance of e-bikes. The American e-bike manufacturers led a successful effort to create three categories of e-bikes, including electric mountain bikes (eMTBs).

This classification system was accepted by all manufacturers and has been adopted by 22 states, including California in 2016, when this classification system was incorporated into the California Vehicle Code (CVC).

This classification system places strict requirements on e-bike design and capabilities along with a distinction between an electric bicycle and motorized bicycles/mopeds. These new laws prompted many local agencies to revisit and revise their policies for e-bike use on bike paths and trails, as they are no longer categorized as motorized vehicles.

The topic was briefly discussed at the November 8, 2018 Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee. Since that time, staff has further researched how other agencies have addressed the use of e-bikes as its popularity has increased.

 

Discussion

In 2016, the State of California adopted a new classification system that no longer categorizes e-bikes as a motorized device. Given this change, and the recognition that e-bikes appeal to a growing demographic with physical limitations and represent an opportunity to reduce emissions along bicycle commute routes, many agencies are reviewing their policies.

 

E-Bike Description

Section 312.5 of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) defines an e-bike as having fully operable
pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. American e-bike manufacturers created a
classification system that designates three categories of e-bikes: class 1, class 2, and class 3. This classification system and model legislation has been adopted by 22 states, including California (see Attachment 1).

Below are descriptions for each class of e-bike.

– Class 1 electric bicycle: a “low speed pedal-assisted bicycle” with an electric motor that
provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, up to 20 mph.

– Class 2 electric bicycle: a “low speed throttle-assisted bicycle” that may be propelled
exclusively with an electric motor (without pedaling) up to 20 mph.

– Class 3 electric bicycle: a “speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle” with an electric motor
that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, up to 28 mph.

CVC section 21207.5 (b) prohibits the use of class 3 e-bikes on recreational trails and paths unless the public agency with jurisdiction chooses to permit them and provides that a public agency may prohibit class 1 and 2 e-bikes on trails within the agency’s jurisdiction.

 

Electric Mountain Bike (eMTB) Description

Many bicycle manufacturers make e-bikes, but not all make electric mountain bikes or the eMTB version. An eMTB is functionally different from an e-bike (which is intended primarily for use on paved or improved surfaces) in that an eMTB is designed for the rigors of trail use. Typically outfitted with mountain-bike-specific technology, such as disc brakes, suspension, and a wide gear range, eMTBs like all e-bikes are electric-powered (not gas-powered), quiet, and emissions free. Most eMTBs from major manufacturers are also categorized as class 1 electric bikes.

Currently, the City’s municipal code (Chapter 10.48, adopted in 1983) prohibits the use of all
“vehicles” off of public highways and streets. It further defines vehicles to include motor vehicles, motorcycles, minibikes, dirt bikes, dune buggies, and any motor-driven cycle or vehicle.

 

Next Steps

Since the City’s adoption of municipal code chapter 10.48, there has been major changes in
technology and transit options creating a new market that is becoming more affordable as it
evolves. E-bike usage is increasing and becoming more attractive option for commute as well as recreational use. E-bikes popularity is evident with the State’s reclassification of moving it out of the motorized vehicle categories. As such, an argument could be made that the e-bikes are currently allowed on the City’s multi-use trails, including the coastal trail. After receiving feedback and comments from this committee, staff will work on updating the code to reflect current state regulations and present to the City Council for discussion.

Attachments

1. California’s E-Bike Law

 


 

 


 

More on E-Bikes on the Coastside on Coastside Buzz

 


Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) Meets First Thursdays of Odd Numbered Months

The Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC)

 

The Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) consists of seven Half Moon Bay citizens who advise the City Council, Planning Commission, and the Parks and Recreation Commission. In the past, the Committee addressed the development, maintenance, and implementation of the City’s Bicycle & Pedestrian Master Plan and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Design Guidelines.  As part of implementation of the City’s General Plan Complete Streets Policy, BPAC provides advice about circulation system improvements and programs to encourage cycling and walking as a means of transportation and recreation.

Committee members are appointed by the City Council and represent the diversity of perspectives in the community necessary for full representation, including: Two walking enthusiasts, one commuter-cyclist, one senior representative, one youth representative, and a representative for the Cabrillo Unified School District (appointed by the District).

 

BPAC Members:

Carlene Foldenauer (Cabrillo Unified School District Representative)
Aaron Olson
Janet Rae-Dupree
Mario Rendon
Erik Schiller
Matthew Spink
Brandon White

 

 


 

More on the HMB BPAC on Coastside Buzz

 


 

City of HMB Parks and Recreation Commission Meetings ~ 4th Wednesday @ 6:00pm

Watch remotely. Comments and questions by email.

Half Moon Bay Parks and Recreation Commission Agendas

 

The Parks and Recreation Commission advises the City Council on the full range of issues around our community’s parks, playing fields, recreation programming, and a variety of special events provided to the community.

Comprised of five individuals representing the community, appointed by the City Council.

The Commission advises the Council on various policy issues and other matters related to the City’s parks and recreation programs and facilities.

Commissioners serve four-year terms.

Commission meetings are held every 4th Wednesday @ 6 pm.

NOTE: 12/7/2022 is in the first week due to holidays.

 

 

Commission meeting agendas are available here, and you may reach the Commissioners by emailing the City Clerk at [email protected].

Members of the Recreation Commission

  • Paulette Eisen, Chair
  • Hilary Stamper, Vice Chair
  • Patricia Black, Recreation Commissioner
  • Adam Eisen, Recreation Commissioner
  • Luis Ruiz Haro, Recreation Commissioner

 

Recreation Department

Physical Address
535 Kelly Avenue
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Phone: 650-726-8297
  1. Edward Behle

    Recreation Supervisor
    Phone: 650-750-2026
  2. Matt Nichols

    Recreation Leader
    Phone: 650-435-8259
  3. Taylor Callan

    Recreation Leader
    Phone: 650-726-8255

Friends of Half Moon Bay Parks & Recreation

The City is grateful to the nonprofit Friends of Half Moon Bay Parks & Recreation for their support!

This group assists in fundraising and other activities to help ensure that the people of Half Moon Bay and the coastside have access to parks and recreational opportunities.

 


 

Latest Updates

Learning,  fun,  fitness, and community are at the center of Half Moon Bay Recreation! 

 

The Half Moon Bay Recreation Department is dedicated to providing a range of recreation programs, services, and opportunities to the entire community, along with parks, trails, and playing fields for your outdoor fun.

 

There’s something fun, affordable, and educational for everyone in the family, year ’round!

The City has a number of parks, playgrounds, and trails for your year ’round use. You can even volunteer to “Adopt-a-Park!” And for the skateboarders in our community, we offer a world-class skate park completed in 2016, located at 535 Kelly Avenue.

The Recreation program also manages several facilities which are available for your parties, meetings, celebrations, and other activities.

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Coastside Buzz
Author: Coastside Buzz

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