Scooters and e-bikes whizzing by unsuspecting folks at high speed on Rocky Mountain House sidewalks has got the attention of town council.

“They seem to be the new and up-and-coming thing occupying our sidewalks,” said Deputy Mayor Dale Shippelt. “They seem to be going a little fast for the sidewalk.”

Shippelt said he recently saw two youths riding scooters along a sidewalk beside his vehicle. Neither was wearing a helmet, and he estimated they were travelling at more than 20 km/h. He said he has also heard concerns from residents about scooters using sidewalks.

While on the topic, Coun. Denise Boniface said she had also seen an e-bike rider travelling on a sidewalk without a helmet at what she estimated was more than 40 km/h. She suggested the town consider hosting a bicycle safety event or another public education campaign.

Coun. Trevor Kalyn said local schools already promote bicycle safety but noted it is ultimately up to students whether they follow the advice.

Chief administrative officer Dean Krause said Rocky Mountain House is not alone in grappling with the issue, as many municipalities are trying to determine whether scooters belong on sidewalks or roads. He said administration would review the matter and bring recommendations back to council for further discussion.

Other municipalities grapple with scooters and motorized bikes

On June 16, a 34-year-old e-scooter rider was seriously injured in a collision with a vehicle north of Red Deer. RCMP said the rider was taken to hospital in serious but stable condition.

The city of Red Deer allows e-scooters on its trail system but advises riders to yield to pedestrians, travel at safe speeds and obey traffic laws.

However, in accordance with Alberta’s Traffic Safety Act, the use of personally owned e-scooters and pocket bikes on public property is prohibited in Red Deer.

Lethbridge has also drawn a distinction between e-bikes and e-dirt bikes. The city permits e-bikes on pathways if they meet provincial standards, including a maximum motor output of 500 watts, a top speed of 32 km/h, functional pedals and an on-off switch for the motor.

E-dirt bikes are not permitted on city pathways because they are substantially heavier and faster. The city says the pathways are not designed to accommodate vehicles weighing 200 to 300 kilograms.