On Tuesday, a crowd of concerned New Yorkers assembled in Central Park to press city officials for a ban on e‑bikes, e‑scooters and certain cyclists inside the park. The protest was organized by the New York City E‑Vehicle Safety Alliance, a coalition of safety advocates who argue that the growing presence of motorized micromobility devices endangers pedestrians.
Calls for a ban and insurance requirement
“We’ve absolutely had it. We want to save lives,” said safety advocate Janet Schroeder, a spokesperson for the alliance. Schroeder and other demonstrators demanded that the city prohibit e‑vehicles from the park’s pathways and require riders to carry liability insurance.
Schroeder also criticized the park’s recent redesign of its six‑mile loop, saying the new layout appears to create a “super highway” for e‑bikes rather than a safe shared space for walkers and cyclists.
Personal tragedy fuels the push
Among the speakers was Brandi Wiltse, whose aunt, Jean Kotler of the Upper West Side, suffered a traumatic brain injury after being struck by an e‑bike while jogging on July 7 at West Drive and 64th Street. Wiltse described the lasting effects on her aunt’s memory and daily functioning, underscoring the need for stronger safeguards.
“Let’s require them to have insurance. At least the insurance can help provide some kind of relief to families,” Wiltse urged the crowd.
Statistics and city response
The New York Police Department reported 26 e‑bike and e‑scooter accidents in Central Park as of October 18 this year. In a statement, NYC Parks emphasized its commitment to making the park’s greenways safer, noting that reckless behavior is never permitted and that the agency welcomes all legal micromobility users who follow the rules.
Protesters also advocated for the passage of “Priscilla’s Law,” legislation that would require e‑bikes and e‑scooters to be registered with authorities and display a visible rear license plate.
City officials’ next steps
While the Central Park Conservancy declined to comment, city officials have indicated they will review the alliance’s proposals. The Department of Transportation, which oversees park pathways, is expected to evaluate whether additional signage, speed limits or outright bans are warranted to protect pedestrians.
Community members hope the demonstration will raise awareness and prompt swift action, arguing that safety should not be left to chance.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
