The Santa Cruz City Council, through the Department of Mobility, is set to present the new Municipal Mobility Ordinance today (Thursday) for final approval. This new ordinance will regulate specific aspects of parking and commuting within the city, particularly for bicycles and scooters. Notably, riding on pavements will be prohibited, and a minimum age of 15 for using scooters will be enforced.
Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez revealed that the ordinance aims to regulate the use of personal mobility vehicles in public spaces, both on roads and pedestrian areas. The goal is to implement a new mobility model in the city, focusing on mechanisms that enhance the quality of life, all under the premise of creating a pedestrian-friendly, accessible, and safe city.
This ordinance addresses the necessity to update regulations established in 1985. According to Councillor Evelyn Alonso, the final drafting process involved a period of public input, with a total of 114 suggestions received, along with two from the Provincial Traffic Directorate.
The ordinance introduces several changes, including the regulation of parking hours for suppliers in urban areas, prohibitions on stops in green areas, the creation of shared modal zones with speed limits of 20 and 10 km/h, accommodating cars, bicycles, personal mobility vehicles (scooters), and pedestrians. Additionally, reserved lanes and advanced waiting areas will be established.
The text defines different types of cycling lanes and regulates their usage.
· Private bikes designated for rent are covered.
· For the first time, scooters will be controlled, with a strict prohibition of use on pavements, pedestrian zones, squares, parks, or promenades.
· A minimum age of 15 is set for riding personal mobility vehicles in public spaces, with those under this age allowed to use them only in non-traffic areas or enclosed spaces, accompanied by parents or guardians.
· Regulations cover the use of approved reflective elements during the night, mandatory helmet use for all users, and a circulation certificate ensuring compliance with national technical requirements.
· Specific regulations for regulated parking zones (ZER) include hourly limitations, control measures, and resident requirements.
· Special regulations for parking for individuals with reduced mobility are outlined.
The introduced ordinance aims to enhance safety, improve the overall urban mobility experience, and ensure compliance with contemporary needs compared to the outdated 1985 regulation. The City Council anticipates final approval in the upcoming plenary session.
