During a June 19 meeting, the township's Board of Directors discussed the results of a recent analysis regarding the use of devices in The Woodlands, including options to either more specifically define the vehicles allowed on pathways or ban them.
"If we don't act as a board, it's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when someone's going to be killed or severely hurt," Board Chairman Brad Bailey said.
The board will revisit the issue during its 6 p.m. meeting Thursday.
PUBLIC CONCERNS
This is not the first time the township board has addressed electric vehicles on pathways. In 2021, the issue was discussed but the board took no action.
"That culture of sharing the pathways is critical to making them safe and enjoyable for all residents and the rise of higher speed electric vehicles has changed the dynamics on how residents use them," Monticello said during public comment.
Monticello also noted some residents have found it a challenge to effectively communicate with pathway users who have headphones or earbuds in and can't hear them approaching.
Children not wearing helmets and the lack of knowledge on "rules of the road" has also become an issue, Monticello said.
"Something has to change on our pathways," Monticello said. "As a community, we need to do more to keep each other safe and to share this amazing asset."
Tom Lanthorn, a resident and crossing guard at Powell Elementary on Cochrans Crossing Drive, said he has seen an increase in children and parents using e-scooters.
"These emission-free devices are incredibly popular and are here to stay," Lanthorn said. "The township needs to get ahead of this tsunami before it becomes a serious problem."
THE PATHWAYS
The Woodlands, founded in 1974, features more than 220 miles of pathways, most of which are approximately 8 feet wide. However, there are some pathways as narrow as 6 feet, said Chris Nunes, chief operating officer for the township.
Part of The Woodlands founder George Mitchell's vision was to preserve nature and create space where people could use pathways that connect neighborhoods to parks, schools and shopping centers.
Along with bike riders, the pathways are used by walkers, runners and rollerbladers.
Nunes said currently, motor vehicles are prohibited on pathways except for maintenance vehicles and wheelchairs and scooters necessary for those with physical disabilities.
Enforcement, Nunes said, is an issue. The township has no enforcement on roadways and only the Texas Department of Transportation and municipalities can prohibit use of roadways or sidewalks for safety purposes.
"We do not have the ability to write tickets; we do not have police enforcement powers," Nunes said.
If there is an issue on the pathways, the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office would have to respond and cite someone for criminal trespass.
PATHWAY OPTIONS
According to an analysis by Halff Associates, the township has a few options, including allowing certain e-vehicles on the pathways by amending the township orders to clarify those vehicles and create a safety education coordinator to monitor safety trends and inform pathway users.
The township could also prohibit the use of e-vehicles on the pathways.
Creating educational programs, Nunes said, would be critical if the e-vehicles are going to be allowed. The goal is to educate residents about safety practices, regulations and etiquette for using bikes and scooters, both electric and manual.
"We have to look at this like anything in The Woodlands; we've got to partner up," Bailey said of working with county officials, school districts and Bike The Woodlands.
He also suggested the city could require certification for vehicles.
"This is a major public safety issue that we have to look at addressing," Bailey said.
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