The debate over electric bicycle (e-bike) access on Colorado Springs’ open space trails has taken a new turn, potentially leading to a public vote on the issue. The City Council is currently considering a policy that would classify certain e-bikes as “non-motorized,” thus allowing them on trails open to traditional bicycles. However, some civic leaders argue that this decision should be made by the residents of Colorado Springs through a ballot measure.
Background of the E-Bike Debate in Colorado Springs
For months, Colorado Springs has been grappling with the question of whether to allow e-bikes on trails traditionally reserved for non-motorized vehicles. This debate centers on the city’s Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOPS) program, which was approved by voters in 1997. The TOPS ordinance uses sales tax revenue to acquire and manage the city’s outdoor destinations and prohibits motorized vehicles on specific trails.
The Proposed E-Bike Policy
The proposed policy under consideration by the City Council would classify Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 electric-assisted bicycles as non-motorized use. This classification would allow:
- Class 1 e-bikes: Permitted on all trails, including regional park and open space trails. These e-bikes are pedal-assist only, meaning the motor only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling, and ceases to provide assistance when the bike reaches 20 mph.
- Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes: Allowed on urban and regional trails.
- Class 2 e-bikes also have a maximum speed of 20 mph, but have a throttle that can propel the bike without pedaling.
- Class 3 e-bikes are pedal assist only, but can reach speeds of up to 28 mph.
The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Department supports this policy change to regulate e-bike use across the park system. In November 2024, the Colorado Springs Parks Advisory Board voted 4-3 to recommend these changes to the City Council.
Concerns and Opposition
Despite the progress toward a resolution, some community members and leaders remain opposed to the proposed policy. Critics argue that classifying e-bikes as non-motorized violates the original intent of the TOPS ordinance, which explicitly prohibits motorized vehicles on certain trails. Former city council member and former Colorado Secretary of State Wayne Williams has pointed out that the TOPS ordinance states that its provisions can only be repealed or amended by a vote of the registered electorate of the City.
Richard Skorman, another former council member, acknowledges the popularity of e-bikes on some trails but believes they should not be allowed in protected open spaces.
The Push for a Public Vote
In light of these concerns, prominent civic leaders have called on the City Council to table the proposed e-bike policy and instead put the issue to a public vote. They argue that such a significant decision, particularly one that could be interpreted as amending the TOPS ordinance, should be made directly by the citizens of Colorado Springs.
Arguments for a Ballot Measure
- Upholding the TOPS Ordinance: Proponents of a public vote emphasize the importance of adhering to the original intent of the voter-approved TOPS ordinance. They believe that allowing e-bikes on trails designated for non-motorized use would effectively amend the ordinance without proper voter consent.
- Ensuring Public Input: A ballot measure would allow all registered voters in Colorado Springs to weigh in on the e-bike issue, ensuring that the decision reflects the will of the community as a whole.
- Avoiding Legal Challenges: By putting the issue to a vote, the City Council could avoid potential legal challenges from those who argue that the proposed policy violates the TOPS ordinance.
Concerns About a Public Vote
Despite the arguments in favor of a ballot measure, some stakeholders have expressed concerns about this approach.
- Cost and Potential for Misleading Campaigns: Organizations like the Colorado Springs Mountain Bike Association and the Trails and Open Space Coalition worry about the potential for costly and misleading campaigns that could sway voters based on misinformation.
- Risk of a Broader Referendum on Bikes: There are concerns that a vote on e-bike access could turn into a broader referendum on bicycles in general, potentially leading to unintended consequences for cycling in the city.
E-Bike Regulations in Other Colorado Cities
To provide context for the debate in Colorado Springs, it is helpful to examine how other cities in Colorado regulate e-bike use.
- Denver: For official details, consult the City of Denver’s Bike Rules.
- Boulder: Non-motorized paths generally restrict all eBike types unless explicitly stated. Specific trails managed by Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP) may allow Class 1 and Class 2 eBikes. Refer to Boulder OSMP’s eBike Guidelines for the latest information.
The City Council’s Decision
The Colorado Springs City Council faces a critical decision regarding the future of e-bike access on city trails. They must weigh the potential benefits of the proposed policy, such as increased recreational opportunities and reduced traffic congestion, against the concerns of those who believe it would violate the TOPS ordinance and undermine the preservation of open spaces.
Timeline and Next Steps
- City Council Discussions: The City Council is expected to discuss the e-bike policy at upcoming meetings.
- Deadline for Ballot Measure Approval: Any potential ballot measure would need to be approved by the end of January to appear on the April 1 ballot.
Potential Ballot Language
Former council members Richard Skorman and Wayne Williams have already begun working with city staff to draft potential language for a ballot measure. The specific wording of the ballot question will be crucial in ensuring that voters understand the issue at stake and can make an informed decision.
Implications of the Vote
The outcome of this decision, whether made by the City Council or the voters, will have significant implications for outdoor recreation, transportation, and the preservation of open spaces in Colorado Springs.
Impact on Recreation
Allowing e-bikes on more trails could open up recreational opportunities for a wider range of people, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those who are new to cycling. E-bikes can make it easier to tackle challenging terrain and travel longer distances, potentially encouraging more people to get outdoors and enjoy the city’s natural beauty.
Impact on Transportation
E-bikes can also serve as a viable transportation option for commuting and running errands. By allowing e-bikes on urban trails and bike lanes, Colorado Springs could reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and promote a more sustainable transportation system.
Impact on Open Space Preservation
The debate over e-bike access also raises important questions about the management and preservation of open spaces. Some worry that allowing e-bikes on certain trails could lead to increased erosion, damage to vegetation, and conflicts with other trail users. It will be important for the city to carefully monitor the impact of e-bikes on the environment and implement appropriate regulations to protect these valuable resources.
Previous Ballot Measures in Colorado Springs
To better understand the context of a potential e-bike ballot measure, it is helpful to look at some previous ballot measures in Colorado Springs. In recent years, voters have been asked to weigh in on a variety of issues, including:
- Road Improvements (2C): Voters have approved measures to fund road improvements through a sales tax.
- Marijuana Sales: Voters have considered measures related to the regulation and taxation of marijuana sales.
Conclusion
The future of e-bike access in Colorado Springs remains uncertain. The City Council is weighing a proposed policy that would allow certain e-bikes on trails currently reserved for non-motorized use. However, calls for a public vote on the issue could lead to a ballot measure in the near future. Ultimately, the decision will have significant implications for recreation, transportation, and the preservation of open spaces in the city.
