Another ban avoided!- Emeryville, CA

[Sleepy]

The city of Emeryville(across the bay from San Francisco)proposed a complete ban of Segways in their city (sidewalks, multi-use paths, and even bike lanes), with only an exception for people with disabled use placards. Segway of Oakland led the efforts and gave the city council members demos last week. Last night Matt Dailida from LLC arrived to lend his support. Twelve pro-Segway reps were there from Segway of Oakland, Segway of Napa Solano, SF Electric Tours, Segway LLC, and Bay Area SEG. Six attendees presented their personal experiences with Segways and how a ban could potentially impact them-- even though none of us are residents. By a unanimous vote, the council decided not to ban them! But they requested that their Transportation Committee take a closer look at the issue to see if any regulation is appropriate. This is probably the best outcome that we could have asked for.

If it wasn't for local Segway enthusiasts, this would have gone unnoticed and another city would have banned Segways. Please don't assume that someone is keeping tabs on your local government. If you value your freedom to glide, do your part and make sure your city isn't sneaking in any ordinances under the radar. If you find that your city is thinking about regulating Segway use and you need help, please contact SEG America for information.

-Alex
Bay Area SEG Coordinator

[KSagal]

Thanks for the report, Alex.

It is nice to see the government work, the way it is supposed to. Your warning is well stated, even in the best of situations, the function of governing in the United States, either local or state or national, requires the citizenry to get involved and get vocal...

Thanks again,


Karl Ian Sagal

Each road you travel should be just a bit better for having had you pass.

[JIMBO]

That's great news Alex. Again, it sounds like cooler heads prevailed. As you know I've just been through the same frightening scenario in Newport Beach. Thanks to local Segway owners and Matt Dailida Segway HT's are permitted everywhere EPAMD's (aka pedestrians) are permitted. Even some areas where bikes are prohibited. I think it's a matter of responsible ridership and common sense. My city council's study group seemed to relate to the testimony that all Segway owners are ambassadors. That seemed to really make a difference. A lesson for us all.

BTW I'll be in the bay area this weekend (Pacifica's 20th annual FogFest), and while I won't get to enjoy gliding freely in Emeryville, Liz and I will be meeting up with the Knights for a glide.


Jim Headley
Segway Orange County
~ STEP UP ! ~

[Stewbonz]

Super job guys.
A hands on demonstration to the decision makers is the way to go.


JEFF JARVIS
http://www.thailandsegwaytours.com/

[pam]

Bravo, one city at a time! Thanks to all who contributed their time for this.
Pam