Cheshire bans e-bikes, e-scooters at Bartlem Park amid safety concerns
E-bikes, e-scooters and other motor-assisted rideable vehicles are no longer allowed at Bartlem Park in Cheshire as town officials respond to safety concerns, complaints, and damage to park property.
New signs posted throughout the popular park notify visitors of the ban, which applies to rideable vehicles equipped with a helper motor.
“Those bikes fly,” said Sophia Chagnon of North Haven. “So they can’t really stop quickly if they needed to.”
For the next couple of days, people caught riding on one of the vehicles will be informed of the new ban and asked to leave the park. After that grace period, enforcement will begin.
Many park visitors noticed the new signs on Thursday.
“I think it’s unfortunate. They’d probably be allowed if everyone kind of followed some safety rules and just being careful,” said Kim Shaw of Cheshire. “But I imagine if people are flying on electric bikes and there’s people walking their dogs on the path, which is really, I think, more or less what it’s meant to be for, that’s going to cause issues.”
The Cheshire Parks & Recreation Department said complaints about e-bikes have increased over the past several months. Officials also reported damage to the park’s new bandshell area.
In a statement, the parks and recreation director said the ban is:
“…the most appropriate way to protect the park, preserve the Bandshell, and maintain a safe and peaceful environment for everyone who visits.”
Some park-goers said they support the town’s decision.
“I feel like it’s probably a good idea,” said Joseph Verrillo of North Haven.
The issue has also sparked debate online. In response to a Cheshire police social media post announcing the ban, many commenters supported the move. Others argued it goes too far and said not every e-bike rider is dangerous.
Police also said security cameras will be installed in and around the bandshell.
Many hope the ban makes a difference.
“Definitely today, it’s nice not having something fly right past me. I mean, I can’t imagine seeing them go as fast as they do in my neighborhood around here when people are walking,” said Chagnon.
Police said there is an exception to the ban for people with mobility challenges.
Officials said those caught violating the ban could eventually face a fine or a juvenile summons, depending on their age.
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