'Walk It, Don't Ride It': Summit Mayor Introduces New Safety Signs

SUMMIT, NJ — Mayor Elizabeth Fagan highlighted new signs throughout the City on Tuesday that detail safety measures in place for the usage of sidewalks.

"Walk it, don't ride it," Fagan told residents in a video where she showed the displays.

The new signs follow an ordinance that went into effect on May 1, "to ensure pedestrian safety while allowing for reasonable use of these devices in designated areas."

Under the ordinance, bikes and scooters are prohibited on all sidewalks within the Central Business District. Parents are encouraged to remind their kids to walk them while on the downtown sidewalks.

Electronic bikes (e-bikes) and electronic scooters also are not allowed on sidewalks anywhere in the city.

In September, Summit announced the addition of a new "Bike Depot" to give residents a way to house their bikes and scooters while working or going out in the City. The weather-protected structure on the NJ Transit side of Summit Avenue and Union Place includes outlets for charging and is under video surveillance.

E-Bike Requirements

E-bikes must have pedals, otherwise, it is considered a motorcycle. This means the driver must have registration, insurance, and a license.

Class 2 e-bikes are considered machines with assisted pedaling and use a throttle. These have a top speed of 20 miles per hour and are legal without registration or insurance.

Anyone riding under 17 years old must wear a helmet.

Class 3 e-bikes can reach 28 miles per hour, and can only be ridden by individuals ages 15 and older. A driver's license is required, and a helmet must be worn.

The e-bike must also be registered and insured.

Reckless driving or trying to flee from law enforcement can result in summonses, impounds, and court appearances.

Additional information on how the City is raising awareness for the safety of riders and pedestrians on the Summit Bike Safety website.

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