Lehighton plans to revise its outdated ordinance that only addresses bicycles.

“The Lehighton Borough Police Department has fielded multiple calls and safety concerns resulting from subjects operating motorized pedalcycles, motor scooters, E-Bikes and bicycles on our roadways,” said borough police Chief Troy Abelovsky in a Facebook post. “This concern was also brought to the attention of borough council at the April monthly meeting.”

Abelovsky said that since then, council’s Police Fire and Safety Committee, along with Mayor Ryan Saunders and he have met to revise the borough’s outdated ordinance from 1975, which only addressed bicycles in the borough.

“The intention is to bring our ordinances up-to-date and address the concerns of 2026,” said Abelovsky, who added that once the revision is complete, the new ordinance will be posted.

“The police department is in the process of addressing these concerns and making our streets and parks safe for all persons to travel and enjoy.”

Abelovsky said the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation addresses these vehicles, which the police department will enforce. Enforcement can consist of towing and issuing fines to operators or families who permit the violations to occur, he said.

Abelovsky said to consult Pennsylvania bike laws for more information.

“A large percentage of violators are persons who are under the age of 16 and not properly licensed,” he said. “Many make extremely reckless actions while operating these vehicles: disobeying traffic control devices (stop signs and speeding), weaving/cutting vehicles off in traffic and endangering smaller children in our local parks.”

Abelovsky noted that the police department is seeking assistance from the parents of these operators.

“Parents, please do not permit your child to operate one of these listed vehicles,” he said. “You can help keep our roadways safe.

“Children under the age of 16, do not know or understand the rules of the road, but their inappropriate or careless driving actions can lead to serious injuries. The police department does not want to see your children or any innocent persons injured.”

Abelovsky urged parents to contact the police department if they have any questions regarding whether their son or daughter is permitted to operate a specific type of vehicle on borough roadways.

Lastly, he emphasized that helmets are required for all persons operating bicycles and segways under the age of 12, motorized scooters under the age of 21, and are recommended for all operators.

Earlier this month, borough council held discussion on bicycle and e-bike ordinances.

At that meeting, resident Darren Frehulfer told council there’s been an influx of motorized vehicles “in a very dangerous way,” including many without licenses.

Frehulfer noted that recently his young daughter was almost struck by one, and added his purpose for bringing the matter to council’s attention was to protect children playing in parks, as he’s concerned about his daughter’s safety.

Councilwoman Jordyn Miller said at that time the borough does have ordinances, but that they are archaic.

Mayor Ryan Saunders said they’ll put together a proposal for borough council with all the variables.

Saunders noted there is a sign in the Grove that states no bicycles, skateboards or scooters.

With the weather change, Saunders said there’s been an uptick in adolescents’ violent behavior.

After the meeting, Saunders noted that the borough has limited bicycle ordinances.

Saunders added that he planned to meet with police Chief Troy Abelovsky, along with the police, fire, and safety committee.