Motorized and Electric Mobility Device Safety 

Start Date: Announced at the Sept. 4, 2025 Work Study Session 

Chair: Councilmember Jennifer Adams

Subcommittee Members: Councilmember Berdetta Hodge

Purpose: The purpose of this subcommittee is to evaluate and recommend strategies to enhance safety and public awareness for electric bicycles, scooters, and other micromobility devices in the City of Tempe. The Council subcommittee is dedicated to improving rider safety, minimizing injuries, and promoting equitable access to sustainable mobility options.

Background: The use of motorized and electric bicycles, scooters, and skateboards has surged in communities across Arizona, providing residents and visitors with affordable, accessible, and environmentally friendly transportation options. However, rapid adoption has also brought challenges related to safety, regulation, and public perception.

 The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (USCPSC) published a study which found that there was a spike in emergency room-treated injuries from 2017-2021 in accidents that involved motorized scooters, bikes, and hoverboards.

Injuries rose 127% with over 77,200 injuries and 129 fatalities over the four-year period (Plattner Verderame, 2023).

 The subcommittee collaborates with city departments, schools, businesses, and community partners to:

1. Analyze local injury and crash data involving e-bikes and scooters
2. Review best practices from comparable cities
3. Identify opportunities to strengthen safety regulations
4. Enhance existing education and outreach efforts for riders and motorists

These steps enable the Council subcommittee to develop practical, evidence-based recommendations that enhance public safety and promote transportation equity.

Public Meeting Information:

Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026 at 2 p.m. on the Tempe City Hall, Third Floor Conference Room, 31 E. 5th St

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Questions: Contact Council Assistant: Quincy Carrillo 480-350-8893

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