The City of New York is considering legislation that would ban electric bicycles and e-scooters from parks, including Central Park. Since 2018, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation has enforced a car-free park policy, and although a pilot program last year allowed limited access to electric mobility devices, the new proposal may reverse that decision.
On Thursday, electric vehicle media outlet Electrek reported that the city is attempting to block access for e-bikes and e-scooters due to safety concerns, but the plan is facing strong pushback from the public.
Advocates for electric mobility argue that parks should be accessible to everyone, including those with limited mobility, and warn that restrictions could hinder progress toward sustainable transportation. In particular, Central Park serves as a vital route for commuters and delivery workers, and limiting access may worsen traffic congestion in the city center.
A spokesperson for the NYC Parks Department stated that the city aims to ensure all residents can use parks safely, including those using electric mobility devices. However, it remains unclear what the final decision will be.
The outcome of this debate may have implications not only for New York City but for urban transportation policies around the world. While e-bikes and e-scooters have established themselves as eco-friendly mobility options, the challenge of ensuring pedestrian safety in crowded urban areas remains unresolved.
