There has been a lot of conversation across New Jersey lately about e-bikes. Here in Moorestown, that conversation became very real because of an incident that happened right here in our community.
A resident shared with the Council that while walking with a friend on the sidewalk along Stanwick Road, she was struck from behind by two young residents riding together on an e-bike. She was knocked to the ground and suffered multiple scrapes and bruises, narrowly avoiding a head injury. The riders also fell but, thankfully, were not seriously hurt.
It was an upsetting experience for everyone involved. It also raised an important question: as e-bikes become more common in our community, are the rules clear enough to keep riders and pedestrians safe?
I believe that when residents raise legitimate safety concerns, they deserve to be heard. They also deserve clarity about what the rules are and confidence that those rules will be enforced fairly.
After hearing about the incident, the Township Council began working on an ordinance addressing the growing use of e-bikes in Moorestown. When the State of New Jersey adopted an updated e-bike law, we revised our local code to align with the new state framework while also clarifying what responsible e-bike use looks like here in Moorestown.
New Jersey is now rolling out new statewide requirements that take effect in July 2026. Riders will need to be at least 15 years old, possess a valid driver’s license, e-bike license, or e-bike permit, register their e-bike with the Motor Vehicle Commission, and wear a helmet. Because the MVC is still developing its licensing and registration process, residents should visit the MVC website for the latest implementation information.
Our Cyclist, Pedestrian and Traffic Safety Advisory Committee also reviewed the ordinance, helping ensure that it reflected both residents’ safety concerns and the realities of how people move through our community.
E-bikes can be a convenient and enjoyable way to get around. They can help people spend more time outdoors, visit local businesses, connect with friends, and experience Moorestown in a different way. That matters. But convenience and fun must also come with responsibility.
That is why the ordinance we passed focuses on conduct, common sense, and education.
The new ordinance, adopted by the Township Council on June 22, makes clear that e-bikes may not be ridden on sidewalks along Township-owned streets, including Main Street, or on Township off-road trails. The ordinance also addresses unsafe conduct, including reckless riding and carrying passengers on a bike that was not designed to accommodate them.
These are reasonable boundaries intended to help riders, pedestrians, families, seniors, and neighbors share public spaces more safely.
Importantly, this ordinance is not just about enforcement; it is also about education. Police will use warnings when appropriate so riders and families have an opportunity to understand the new rules. Our
Police Department will also work with the school district to educate students about where e-bikes may be ridden and what safe, responsible riding looks like in Moorestown.
This work reflects Moorestown’s broader commitment to Vision Zero principles: the belief that no loss of life or serious injury on our streets is acceptable and that safer streets require thoughtful design, public education, personal responsibility, and clear rules.
Sidewalks should be safe for pedestrians. Trails should be protected for the people using them as intended. Riders should understand what is expected of them. And no one should feel unsafe because the rules are unclear or ignored.
I believe we can strike the right balance and respond thoughtfully. And we can adopt rules that are practical, enforceable, and rooted in protecting people.. E-bikes can be part of a fun, convenient, and connected Moorestown. Families and pedestrians also deserve to feel safe. Our community works better when we look out for one another and use our shared spaces responsibly.
You can learn more about the ordinance and the specific rules on the Township website.
As the ordinance is implemented, I hope it brings greater clarity, accountability, and peace of mind to residents throughout Moorestown.
