E-Bike Rules, Police Presence Increase In Westfield

WESTFIELD, NJ — Residents heading into the peak of summer in Westfield can expect a more visible police presence downtown and in parks, along with stepped-up enforcement of new rules for e-bike riders.

In a recent community update, Mayor Jeremy Berman said the Westfield Police Department will again expand its Quality of Life Unit for the summer months, increasing patrols in the Central Business District on select evenings through Labor Day.

According to the mayor, officers — including both uniformed and plainclothes personnel — will focus on parking violations, bicyclists riding where it is not permitted on downtown sidewalks, and other quality-of-life concerns.

Park patrols are also expected to increase as seasonal activity picks up across town.

E-bike safety is another focus this summer as state regulations continue to roll out and enforcement ramps up.

“E-bike safety continues to be a real concern,” Berman said in the update.

The mayor noted that officers will be enforcing updated state rules, with a compliance deadline of July 19.

Under the new requirements, riders must be at least 15 years old, e-bikes must be registered and licensed through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, and riders are required to follow all rules of the road. Penalties for noncompliance may include fines and, in some cases, impoundment of the bike.

The updates come as Westfield prepares for a busy summer season, with increased foot traffic in parks, neighborhoods, and the downtown business district.