In recent months, two of the City Commission's advisory boards - the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and the Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee - have discussed the local increase in e-bike usage. The discussions have touched on the issues and possible impacts on the users and infrastructure of Marquette’s multi-use path network. Both boards have offered formal recommendations that the City Commission establish a temporary task force to evaluate these emerging issues and propose potential solutions.

The City has seen a notable increase in the use of e-bikes and other alternative transportation modes on the local path network. While this trend supports sustainable transportation and recreation, it has also raised concerns related to speed, safety, and user etiquette within these shared public corridors. Community members have expressed growing unease about conflicts between different types of users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorized devices.

In response, the City’s Police Department has taken steps to increase education and issue warnings to path users. Despite these efforts, feedback from residents and City staff suggests that additional action is warranted to facilitate a better experience for all users.

The proposed task force would, at a minimum, include representatives from both PRAB and TPAC. Its charge would be to gather input from a wide range of stakeholders, including residents, business owners, trail users, and advocacy groups. This outreach should occur in a structured, transparent manner and could include public meetings, surveys, or interviews.

Following its work, the task force would present a summary report to the City Commission. This report may include specific policy recommendations or outline a range of regulatory and programmatic options for the Commission’s consideration.

Staff is recommending that this task force have seven members: 3 current PRAB members designated by vote of that board, 3 current TPAC members designated by vote of that board, and one City Commissioner designated by the Mayor.