Transportation (Bicycle Infrastructure)

HB 1084 clarifies the legal definition of electric bicycles in North Carolina by categorizing them into three classes based on motor power and speed limits, while also granting cities and counties the authority to create their own safety rules. Under this bill, electric bikes are generally allowed on roads and bike paths, but local governments can restrict their use on sidewalks or trails, set speed limits, and require helmets for riders under 18 on certain classes. Additionally, the legislation allocates $100,000 to the Department of Transportation to fund a public awareness campaign focused on electric bicycle safety and proper usage.

This bill clarifies the legal definition of electric assisted bicycles in North Carolina by categorizing them into three classes based on motor power and speed limits. It authorizes local governments, including cities and counties, to create their own rules regarding where these bikes can be ridden, such as restricting them from sidewalks or setting speed limits on shared paths. While the bill generally allows electric bikes on all roadways, it mandates that riders under 18 wear helmets when using Class 3 bikes and permits cities to require helmets for younger riders on Class 1 and 2 bikes. Additionally, the legislation directs the Department of Transportation to create educational materials about safe e-bike usage and provides funding to support this effort.

HB 282 amends North Carolina law to clarify that Strategic Transportation Investments (STI) funds can be used for independent bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure projects, such as bike lanes and sidewalks. It removes previous restrictions that prevented the Department of Transportation from funding such projects, except for specific cases like municipal matching funds for federal projects or projects already scheduled for construction by 2015. The bill directly affects local governments and municipalities seeking to use STI funds for non-vehicle transportation improvements. Key provisions rewrite two statutes to explicitly allow these projects, streamlining funding access for community-led bike and pedestrian initiatives. This change makes it easier for local entities to secure state transportation funds for walking and cycling infrastructure.

Senate Bill 576 redefines electric assisted bicycles into three distinct classes based on their motor assistance and speed capabilities. The bill permits e-bikes on most roadways and paths, but requires helmets for Class 3 e-bike riders and passengers. It also grants cities and counties the authority to regulate e-bike use within their jurisdictions, allowing them to restrict certain classes on specific paths, set speed limits, and require helmets for Class 1 or 2 e-bikes. Finally, the Department of Transportation is tasked with developing educational materials on e-bike safety.