Skateboards, skates, bicycles and scooters could soon be banned from a number of sidewalks in Bristol under an ordinance that will be considered on first reading Tuesday night by the city council.
Use of the devices and vehicles poses a “significant risk” to pedestrian safety, particularly those with mobility issues, and may result in damage to public property, according to the ordinance.
If approved on two readings, the ordinance would ban the devices on sidewalks adjacent to State Street, Piedmont Avenue, Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Lee Street, Moore Street and Cumberland Street.
The ordinance would not apply to devices used by those with disabilities, including wheelchairs and mobility scooters, emergency vehicles or devices used by emergency personnel and city maintenance vehicles or devices.
The city’s police department would enforce the ordinance. For first violations, a written warning would be issued, while subsequent violations would result in a fine of $50 each. If approved, there would be an appeal process for violations.
If the council OKs the changes, signs would be placed along the sidewalks and the city would work to educate the public about the new regulations.
The meeting will also include a presentation of the school board’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026, which starts July 1. City Manager Randy Eads will also make a presentation on the city’s budget and capital plan for the next fiscal year.
Here’s the agenda for the meeting, which starts at 6 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall, 300 Lee St.
