Lockport to Decide on Electric Scooters for City Streets Today

UPDATE: The city of Lockport is set to make a pivotal decision today regarding the use of electric scooters on city streets. The Committee of the Whole meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, October 25, 2023, will review an ordinance that could change the landscape for local transportation.

Under new legislation passed last year, Illinois now permits low-speed electric scooters for adults on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or lower. However, local municipalities retain control over their streets, meaning scooters remain illegal unless explicitly allowed. The proposed ordinance in Lockport would define electric scooters as devices weighing less than 100 pounds with 2 or 3 wheels, handlebars, and a floorboard for standing. Importantly, these scooters must not exceed 10 mph and can only be powered by electricity and human effort.

If the city does not approve this ordinance, the default remains a ban on electric scooters, as Lockport currently prohibits unlicensed motor vehicles on both public and private property without the owner’s consent. The proposed changes would exempt electric scooters from this restriction, marking a significant shift for residents and visitors.

As cities across the nation adapt to changing transportation needs, this decision could greatly enhance mobility options in Lockport, making it easier for residents to navigate the city. The outcome of this meeting is crucial, as it could set a precedent for similar measures in surrounding areas.

Residents are encouraged to attend the meeting and voice their opinions, as the city grapples with balancing innovation and safety. With the potential for increased scooter usage, Lockport could see not only a shift in transportation dynamics but also a broader conversation about urban mobility solutions.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops and the committee deliberates on the future of electric scooters in Lockport.