CITY OF SEATTLE
ORDINANCE __________________
COUNCIL BILL __________________
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AN ORDINANCE relating to new vehicle types and curb allowances for e-cargo bicycle delivery; establishing a new vehicle type for e-cargo bikes; establishing rules for operations, parking, and loading for e-cargo bicycle delivery; clarifying new curb allowances for e-cargo bike delivery; and adding new Sections 11.23.430 and 11.44.300 to, and amending Sections 11.14.055, 11.23.120, 11.31.121, and 11.76.015 of, the Seattle Municipal Code.
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WHEREAS, in 2021, the City Council adopted Ordinance 126517, which integrated vehicle definitions for bicycles and electric-assisted bicycles, distinguishing the two types as independent operating use cases and specifying vehicle requirements, and clarified bicycle rules when riding on roadways; and
WHEREAS, the Seattle Department of Transportation, in partnership with the Office of Sustainability and Environment, Seattle City Light, and other departments is focused on addressing the climate crisis through the Transportation Electrification Blueprint and 2022 and 2025 Climate Executive Orders, including working with private-sector partners and others to explore ways to incentivize zero-emissions freight options at the curb, including support for new e-cargo bike freight delivery programs; and
WHEREAS, the Seattle Department of Transportation recently completed a Zero Emission Freight Project with C40, a global network of mayors working to confront the climate crisis, demonstrating community interest in e-cargo bike programming from businesses and freight partners and proven success in other municipalities; and
WHEREAS, Seattle Municipal Code Title 11 does not include a designated bicycle type for the delivery of goods and services, though delivery activity via bicycle and electric-assisted bicycle is rapidly growing in Seattle and there is a need to clarify approved standards for electric-cargo bicycles and outline rules of operation to ensure...
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