For the past few months, the Texas Township Parks & Trails Committee has been discussing whether the use of electric bicycles (e-bikes) should be allowed on Township trails. Currently, the Township’s park rules do not allow motorized vehicles on trails. The Michigan Vehicle Code (MVC) allows for the operation of electric bicycles on any part of a roadway/highway that is open to a bicycle. However, the MVC also permits local governing bodies to regulate whether electric bicycles are permitted on local trails.
The Township Board would like public input on whether the use of e-bikes should be allowed – and what, if any, stipulations should be in place.
e-bike basics
e-bikes are either pedal or throttle assisted and maximum speeds vary by class. The three classes are:
Current recommendation from the Parks & Trails Committee: Allow use of Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on 8 feet or wider paved trailways/pathways and on sidewalks at least 5 feet wide (i.e. the sidewalks in downtown Texas Corners – not in residential neighborhoods. Residential sidewalks are typically only 4 feet wide).
If the use of e-bikes was permitted, it would require an ordinance amendment with a subsequent public hearing. Before considering a possible amendment, the Township Board would first like to secure feedback during a public forum to gauge resident reaction.
A public forum on the topic of e-bikes will be held on Monday, September 26th during the regularly scheduled Township Board Meeting at 6:00 PM at the Township Hall. We encourage residents to attend and share their input.
How to Provide Input/Feedback
- Speak during the public forum on September 26th
- Audio commentary via Zoom is an option - link will be available on Township Board meeting agenda posted Thursday prior to meeting.
- Submit written comments to info@texastownship.org or submit letters to the Township Office (can be mailed or dropped in the drop box) – these items would be included in the Township Board’s meeting packet for review prior to the meeting.
- Please submit letters no later than noon on Thursday, September 22 for inclusion in the meeting packet.