New 15 mph bike speed limit now enforced throughout Park City and Snyderville Basin

Photo: TownLift

The approved changes include setting a 15 mph speed limit on transportation trails for both e-bikes and non-e-bikes

Summit County, Utah — The Snyderville Basin Special Recreation District (SBSRD) approved amendments to Title 7, Chapter 5 of the Snyderville Basin Parks and Recreational Facilities Code concerning electric-assisted bicycles (e-bikes) on Basin Recreation trails. The adoption, made during the Summit County Council meeting on July 10, follows a comprehensive public survey and collaboration with Park City Municipal’s Trails and Open Space Department, which adopted these rules in May.

The approved changes include setting a 15 mph speed limit on transportation trails for both e-bikes and non-e-bikes and creating a conditional allowance for Class 1 e-bikes on natural surface trails for operators 65 years of age and older or those with mobility disabilities.

Dana Jones, district director of SBSRD, emphasized the importance of these changes in aligning local regulations with actual usage and safety needs. “The community survey results indicate strong support for these measures, which aim to enhance trail safety and ensure a cohesive management approach across the region,” Jones said.

The amendments also include increased ranger presence and educational campaigns to encourage compliance with the new regulations. Matt Wagoner, district superintendent, also highlighted the community’s support for these initiatives, noting that two-thirds of survey respondents favor allocating additional resources to control e-bike usage on public pathways and trails.

According to the survey, over 90% of respondents are familiar with e-bikes, and a significant majority support speed limits between 10-15 mph on pathways. The new regulations are designed to balance the benefits of e-bike usage, such as aiding seniors and individuals with mobility issues, with the need to mitigate potential safety risks and user conflicts.