New Smyrna Beach considers new restrictions on e-bikes, scooters in parks and business districts

New Smyrna Beach is looking to put new limits on where e-bikes, electric scooters and other motorized devices can be ridden, citing growing safety concerns involving pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.The City Commission is considering Ordinance 44-26, which would restrict the use of these devices in certain parts of the city. The proposal comes as residents raise concerns about riders traveling on sidewalks, weaving around pedestrians and ignoring traffic rules.At a well-attended public forum led by the New Smyrna Beach police chief, residents had an opportunity to hear how the proposed rules would work and share their concerns.The police chief reminded residents that e-bike riders are still required to follow the rules of the road.“E-bikes are no different. You can’t blow through stop lights. You can’t blow through stop signs. You can’t go the wrong way against traffic,” the chief said.Some residents say education should be part of the solution, particularly for younger riders.“As f