Politics
Chicago Park District To Hold Town Halls on E-Bike and E-Scooter Use on Paths and Trails
(Taras Grebinets / iStock)
With a new statewide law governing e-bikes and e-scooters set to take effect at the beginning of 2027, the Chicago Park District has announced a series of upcoming town halls to explain the rules and gather feedback on how the devices should be used on park paths and trails.
Three sessions have been scheduled: two in-person and one virtual.
— Sept. 29, 5:30-7 p.m., in-person, Clarendon Park, 4501 N. Clarendon Ave.
— Sept. 30, 5:30-7 p.m., in-person, Ellis Park, 3520 S. Cottage Grove Ave.
— Oct. 6, noon-1:30 p.m., virtual.
The new state law standardizes what had formerly been a patchwork of municipal regulations. It also makes a distinction between lower-speed devices operated more like conventional bikes and higher-speed vehicles that are closer to motorcycles.
Higher powered vehicles capable of speeds topping 28 miles per hour will be prohibited from operating in bike lanes or on bike paths.
Riders of the more powerful e-bikes and e-motos must be at least 16 years old and need to have a valid driver’s license, registration and insurance.
Contact Patty Wetli: [email protected]
