East Providence approves first passage of e-bike ban in city parks, sidewalks

By Ethan Hartley

An ordinance amendment that would prohibit the use of electronic bicycles (e-bikes) on city sidewalks and within all city recreational facilities — and levy strong punishments against violators — received its first passage during the meeting of the East Providence City Council on Nov. 4.

Introduced by Councilman Frank Fogarty of Ward 3 and Council Vice President Frank Rego (Ward 1), the amendment adds language to the city’s existing ordinance banning e-bikes from being used on public sidewalks, just as traditional bicycles are prohibited.

It also adds an updated definition of what constitutes an e-bike (which mirrors language adopted at the state level this past legislative session).

The amendment goes on to specifically bar e-bikes from being used within public parks