Gale Brewer’s Shift on E-Bike Registration in New York Sparks Controversy
Former Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer has made a surprising turn in her stance on e-bike regulations, now supporting a ban on e-bikes in parks and a state campaign for licensing. This change comes after years of advocating for bike lanes and cycling, a shift influenced by “nasty” emails urging her to align with a group claiming to prioritize street safety but opposing efforts to reclaim road space from cars.
Brewer, once a strong advocate for protected bike lanes, recently announced her backing for state legislation that would require e-bike users to register their vehicles with the DMV. This decision was revealed at a town hall hosted by the E-Vehicle Safety Alliance (EVSA), an organization that promotes strict regulations on micro-mobility devices and often resists initiatives aimed at reducing car dominance on city streets.
Thank you @TransAlt for evaluating proposed e-bike policy. I am proud to sponsor Intro 1163 and a Resolution in support of S7703. I do not believe a blanket e-bike registration rule will make streets safer, nor is NYC DOT equipped to establish, manage, or enforce it. https://t.co/fFDDGHtjTY
— Gale A. Brewer (@galeabrewer) November 10, 2023
Previously, Brewer opposed a bill from Council Member Bob Holden that aimed to have the Department of Transportation register e-bikes. Just last November, she expressed skepticism about blanket e-bike registration, stating that it wouldn’t necessarily make streets safer. When questioned about her change of heart, Brewer indicated that the increase in accidents and the existence of state bills prompted her to reconsider, noting the significant backlash she has faced.
Brewer has also backed Intro 60, which proposes a blanket ban on e-bikes in city parks. While she acknowledged the enforcement challenges, she emphasized her willingness to explore the feasibility of the bill, which is gaining support from various members of the City Council.
Critics argue that Brewer’s new anti-bike positions reflect a growing trend among lawmakers swayed by the fear-based messaging of the EVSA, despite data showing that e-bikes are generally safe and contribute positively to reducing car dependency. Ken Coughlin, a longtime community board member and cyclist, remarked that the concerns driving Brewer’s change seem rooted more in fear of change than in actual data.
It didn't take much to imagine that this "reimagining" by @NYC_DOT would result in busted pylons and unused bike racks in what was once a lane of traffic, and later vehicle parking. (87th and Third). pic.twitter.com/doJR73Ke3j
— Andrew Fine (@AFineBlogger) September 13, 2024
Currently, e-bikes and stand-up e-scooters are allowed in city parks under a pilot program, which will run through May 2025. However, state law prohibits e-bikes on the Hudson River Greenway. Data from the Central Park Precinct shows that the number of bike and micro-mobility-related crashes has remained consistent, contradicting claims of rising dangers associated with e-bikes.
The EVSA’s agenda focuses on amplifying the voices of those claiming to be victims of rogue e-vehicle riders, pushing for e-bike registration and even a complete ban on all e-bikes in parks. Despite their claims of not being “anti-bike,” the group’s rhetoric often appears to undermine progress toward safer street policies.
At the recent town hall, Brewer’s support for e-bike registration aligned with similar endorsements from her colleagues, including Council Member Julie Menin and state Assembly member Jenifer Rajkumar, who is leading the state registration bill.
The EVSA contends that New York City streets have become unsafe due to e-bikes, positioning their advocacy as a fight for pedestrian safety. However, their messaging has drawn criticism for promoting a climate of fear rather than addressing the root causes of pedestrian injuries, which are predominantly linked to motor vehicles.
Despite the controversies surrounding e-bike regulations, many advocates emphasize the importance of increasing e-bike use to foster a zero-emission future. Initiatives in cities like San Francisco demonstrate a push toward incentivizing e-bike use, recognizing their role in sustainable transportation.
In New York, e-bikes have gained popularity, evidenced by Citi Bike reporting that 50 percent of its rides are on e-bikes. Advocates argue that imposing registration and insurance requirements would create additional burdens for essential workers in the delivery industry, primarily composed of immigrant workers.
The ongoing debate reflects broader tensions about urban mobility and the need to balance safety, accessibility, and the evolving dynamics of city streets.
Join the conversation! Share your thoughts on Gale Brewer’s controversial shift regarding e-bike registration. How do you feel about the impact on riders and the community? Let your voice be heard!
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