Ashwaubenon Village Board Repeals and Updates Vehicle Regulations for Bicycles and Scooters

In a recent meeting held on July 22, 2025, the Village Board of Ashwaubenon took significant steps to enhance safety and regulation concerning bicycles, electric bicycles, and scooters within the community. The board discussed a complete repeal and recreation of Chapter 7, Article 7 of the municipal code, aimed at clarifying and updating existing regulations.

The new code introduces several key changes, including the requirement for registration of both bicycles and electric bicycles, ensuring that electric bicycles are treated the same as traditional bicycles under local law. This move aims to streamline enforcement and improve public understanding of the regulations.

One of the most notable changes is the restriction on electric scooters. Under the new regulations, electric scooters will be prohibited on roads with speed limits exceeding 30 miles per hour, a decision made with public safety in mind. This restriction is particularly relevant for streets near schools, allowing young riders to navigate safely to educational institutions. However, scooters will still be permitted on roads with bike lanes, although they will be banned from high-traffic areas like Oneida Street and Holmgren Way.

The board also addressed concerns regarding the safety of young riders, proposing a helmet requirement for anyone under the age of 16. This initiative, modeled after a similar regulation in another Wisconsin municipality, aims to promote safety and encourage educational opportunities for young riders about the importance of helmet use.

In addition to these regulations, the board discussed prohibiting the short-term commercial rental of electric scooters, responding to past requests for such services. The new code also includes definitions and restrictions for other motorized vehicles, such as mopeds and ATVs, further clarifying where these vehicles can operate.

While the board expressed a commitment to safety, some members raised concerns about the potential for increased conflicts between pedestrians and riders on sidewalks. The discussion highlighted the need for ongoing education and enforcement to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

To facilitate public awareness, the board agreed on the necessity of a media release to inform residents about the changes and encourage community engagement. The conversation underscored the importance of balancing safety with accessibility, as board members acknowledged the unique characteristics of Ashwaubenon’s streets and sidewalks.

As the village moves forward with these updated regulations, the focus remains on fostering a safe environment for all road users, particularly as the popularity of electric scooters and bicycles continues to rise. The board's proactive approach aims to address safety concerns while promoting responsible use of these vehicles in the community.