New pedestrian safety zones coming to Scottsdale parks

Scottsdale is taking a targeted approach to one of the fastest-growing public safety challenges facing communities across the Valley – how to safely balance the popularity of e-bikes with the growing number of pedestrians using parks, paths and public spaces.

The city plans to establish designated pedestrian safety zones in high-traffic areas of Chaparral Park, Mountain View Park and Scottsdale Ranch Park where the operation of e-bikes and other motorized devices will be prohibited. The effort is designed to reduce conflicts in areas where families, children, walkers and riders frequently share the same space.

Over the past year, Scottsdale has received several concerns from residents about excessive speeds, near misses and safety risks involving e-bikes and other motorized devices in crowded park areas. Through a collaborative effort between Scottsdale Police, Parks & Recreation, Transportation & Infrastructure and the City Attorney’s Office, city staff identified the three parks as locations where pedestrian and rider interactions are most concentrated.

"Scottsdale's goal is to protect the safety and enjoyment of everyone who uses our parks," said City Manager Greg Caton. "By focusing on the areas where pedestrian activity is highest, we're taking a practical, balanced approach that improves safety while preserving access to our parks and trails."

Under the program, designated safety zones will be clearly marked with signs and located in areas where pedestrian traffic is most concentrated. The city also plans to provide bicycle and e-bike parking near no-riding areas and support the rollout with public education and outreach efforts.

Police Chief Joe LeDuc said the initiative builds on Scottsdale's broader efforts to address the safe use of e-bikes and other motorized devices.

"We've heard from residents who are concerned about the speed of some motorized devices in crowded public spaces," LeDuc said. "This gives us a straightforward solution that is easy for park users to understand and practical for officers to enforce. In high-pedestrian areas, we need clear expectations that help prevent injuries before they occur."

The new safety zones represent the latest step in Scottsdale's ongoing response to evolving transportation trends. In 2025, City Council approved regulations prohibiting anyone under the age of 16 from operating class 3 e-bikes, electric motorcycles and similar high-speed devices on city property. The ordinance also requires electric motorcycles operated on public roadways to be titled and registered with the state and requires retailers to provide educational materials and notifications to customers.

Parks and Recreation and Preserve Senior Director Nick Molinari said the city's parks are among Scottsdale's most heavily used public spaces, making safety a top priority.

"Whether someone is walking their dog, enjoying a family outing, exercising or attending a community event, they should feel safe in our parks," Molinari said. "These designated safety zones help create a more comfortable environment in the busiest areas while still allowing riders to access and enjoy the broader park system."

Unlike broad restrictions on e-bike use, Scottsdale's approach is focused specifically on areas where pedestrian activity is highest. Officials say the strategy allows the city to address safety concerns while maintaining appropriate access for traditional bicycles and lawful e-bike use throughout the rest of the park system.

Learn more about Scottsdale’s e-bike regulations at ScottsdaleAZ.gov, search "e-bike."