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From:R.A. Ratcliff <br />To:GRP-City Council; schi@redwoodcity.org; BCC-Michael Aguilar; BCC-Robin Betz; BCC-Rona Gundrum; BCC-David <br />Fribush; BCC-Nicole Noga; BCC-Brian Schmidt <br />Subject:Item 9A, amending Chapter 8 <br />Date:Monday, December 22, 2025 8:43:41 AM <br />Dear City Council Members, and Members of the TAC, <br />Please send the proposed legislation restricting e-bikes back to TAC and staff for revisions. <br />The legislation needs modification to: <br />- continue to support the recent increase in cycling <br />- make adequate provisions for recumbent bikes <br />- not conflict with neighboring jurisdictions using state law on helmets <br />- allow PD to continue their sensible approach to reckless teen cycling <br />- control speeds and dangerous behaviors rather than creating unnecessary limitationson multi-modal transportation options <br />Suggested modifications: <br />Section 8.3 A and B – Sidewalk riding is generally prohibited for riders over 10 years ofage, with exceptions for safety on streets with speed limits above 25 mph withoutunobstructed continuous bike lanes or unobstructed striped, paved shoulders at least 4-feet wide. Speeds on sidewalks must remain at or below 8 mph (jogging speed),dropping to no more than 4 mph (brisk walking speed), along with an announcement ofpassing at least 5 seconds before encountering pedestrians. <br />8.4 – B [if needed] Redwood City code reiterates the helmet requirements of CaliforniaVehicle Code 21212 <br />Sec. 8.5 – Parked/unattended bicycles or scooters etc. (locked or not) must not obstructor narrow sidewalks, marked crosswalks (or unmarked crosswalks that exist betweenstreet corners with sidewalks), or any passage or path used by or provided forpedestrians and wheelchair users.. <br />E-bikes have evoked significant increases in cycling. For example, the number of teens bikingto Woodside High School has skyrocketed – meaning fewer cars on the road and, best of all,fewer teens driving to school. However, my recent mobility restrictions have highlighted theinadequacy of Redwood City’s infrastructure for cyclists: what exists often suffers fromobstructions and dangerous conditions, including glass and debris, parked city and ‘delivery’vehicles, and unusable racks. <br />RWCmoves Final Plan recommends ‘safe, comfortable, and attractive access and travel forpedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit users of all ages, abilities and preferences.’ Thecurrent proposed legislation discourages cyclists and requires modification to fulfill the plan’sgoals. <br />I regret being unable to attend the December 22nd meeting and hope you will accept mycomments in the spirit of improving our city. <br />Thank you,