COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Coldwater Police are issuing a puplic reminder regarding the city’s traffic and safety regulations following a noticeable surge in electric bicycles, scooters, and skateboards on city streets.
City officials are urging micromobility users to familiarize themselves with Coldwater City Ordinance No. 875, which governs alternative transportation within city limits. Under the established rules, all riders must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and strictly obey standard traffic signs and signals.
The municipal ordinance outlines specific travel zones and restrictions depending on the type of electric device being operated.
Electric skateboards are required to utilize designated sidewalks or bike lanes whenever they are available, and they are entirely prohibited from operating within the boundaries of the City’s Central Business District.
Meanwhile, standard and electric bicycles must adhere to all traditional traffic laws, with the city enforcing additional speed limits and mandatory dismount requirements specifically along Chicago Street.
Unfortunately, Coldwater’s “boys in blue” won’t enforce any of these types of ordinances. Everyday, you see these “e-bikes/escooters” flying at full power on the sidewalks in the downtown with sometimes 3 people (a lot of kids under 10 years old) riding on the same scooter or e-bike. It’s just a matter of time until someone gets very injured walking out of a storefront in the downtown.