Clifton Park, New York Considers E-Bike Ban in Parks and Preserves
Last Updated on May 15, 2025 by Kristina
E-bikes may soon be unwelcome in Clifton Park’s green spaces.
The Town Board in Clifton Park, NY is planning a public hearing to discuss banning e-bikes in municipal parks and nature preserves. The move comes after what officials say is a rise in complaints about the bikes.
“This is a public hearing to consider making changes in our code that will address those complaints,” said Deputy Supervisor Anthony Morelli during a board meeting on May 5.
The hearing is set for 7 p.m. on Monday. Officials will consider changes to Chapters 152 and 153 of the town code. Those sections already ban all motorized vehicles in parks—except for emergency services and wheelchairs for people with disabilities.
Morelli noted that the town recognizes the need for mobility access. He said current rules already allow mechanized transport for those with disabilities and added that future legislation will continue to support that.
Not everyone is on board with the idea of a ban.
Planning Board member Mario Fantini, who’s also running for Town Board, is pushing back. He says safety matters, but banning e-bikes isn’t the solution. Forcing riders onto the roads would be more dangerous, he argues.
He knows this from experience. About a year ago, Fantini was hit by a car while commuting to work on his e-bike. He’s still recovering.
“It’s good exercise,” he said. “It’s fun, but people are in danger on the roads.”
Fantini believes parks and preserves are the safest places to ride. He also points out that many e-bikes and regular bikes travel at the same speed. Instead of driving, people use e-bikes. That means fewer cars, less traffic, and lower emissions.
“I have not heard of people complaining about e-bikes in the parks,” he said. “E-bikes are not being treated the same as other bicycles.”
Still, the debate over where e-bikes belong isn’t unique to Clifton Park. New York City is considering a similar ban. The National Park Service treats e-bikes like motor vehicles, restricting them to roads and parking areas. On the other hand, Seattle allows e-bikes on shared-use trails.
Back in Clifton Park, Morelli says it’s time to have a conversation.
“We have much more utilization (of e-bikes),” he told the board. “So, it’s time that we have a discussion as a town and consider some potential amendments.”
The outcome could shape where and how e-bike riders enjoy the outdoors in the future.
Do you ride an e-bike in Clifton Park? Share your thoughts in the comments below or attend the public hearing to make your voice heard. Let’s make sure policy reflects the real needs of riders and residents alike.
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