URGENT UPDATE: Santa Clarita residents are expressing escalating concerns over e-bike safety, with city officials acknowledging that solutions will not be implemented “overnight.” At a City Council meeting on October 24, 2023, local resident Keith Lobert delivered a poignant metaphor, comparing their ongoing pleas for action to a “broken record,” highlighting the seven months of unaddressed worries shared by community members.
As e-bike incidents on local paseos surge, City Manager Ken Striplin detailed the city’s initiatives to tackle the issue, including a promise to install 110 signs to educate riders on regulations by this fall. However, residents like Lobert insist that safety measures must extend beyond signage to include more comprehensive education on rules for all riders, especially minors.
The situation escalated recently when local cyclist Greg Santilli reported a disturbing encounter on the Old Orchard Trail, where he was threatened by a minor wielding a toy gun. “It’s not just about reckless riding; it’s becoming a hostile environment,” Santilli stated. His experience underscores the urgent need for increased safety measures along these paths.
In response to community concerns raised in March, the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station has ramped up enforcement, issuing 33 citations and impounding 16 e-bikes since then. Striplin confirmed that collaboration between city officials and law enforcement is ongoing, with more than 80 contacts made with riders during targeted operations earlier this year.
Residents are demanding more than just enforcement; they seek a safer, more informed community. “We want safety for everyone, not just those who use the paseos,” Lobert emphasized. The city is actively engaging with local schools to inform parents and students about e-bike safety, aiming to foster responsible riding behavior.
As the situation develops, the community is calling for immediate action. Striplin acknowledged the complexity of the issue, stating, “We are working collaboratively, but this is not a problem that can be solved overnight.” The city continues to emphasize the importance of education and enforcement as critical components in addressing these growing safety concerns.
Authorities encourage residents to report any incidents or unsafe riding behaviors, as they work toward creating a safer environment for all. With local cyclists feeling increasingly threatened, the urgency for effective solutions has never been greater. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving situation.
