As a concerned parent living in Key West, FL, I have witnessed the danger that E-bikes pose to pedestrians firsthand. My four-year-old daughter has narrowly escaped being hit by these bikes on three separate occasions. These near-miss incidents are not only terrifying but also indicative of a larger problem that could lead to serious accidents and potential lawsuits for our city.

E-bikes, while beneficial for reducing carbon emissions and promoting physical activity, can reach high speeds that make them unsuitable for shared pedestrian spaces. According to the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO), most e-bikes can travel at speeds up to 20 mph or higher - far too fast for sidewalks and walking paths meant for pedestrians.

In cities across the country where e-bike use is prevalent, there have been reports of accidents involving pedestrians. In New York City alone, there were over 2,500 reported collisions involving e-bikes between 2014-2023 according to NYPD data.

Our beautiful city of Key West should be a safe place where residents can walk without fear of being struck by an e-bike. We must prioritize pedestrian safety over convenience.

We urge our local government officials to take immediate action by banning E-Bikes from all city-owned sidewalks and walking paths in Key West. This is not just about my family's safety; it's about the safety of all residents who enjoy our public spaces on foot.

Please sign this petition if you agree that we need safer sidewalks in Key West!