Don Kelly, BCA Director
E-Bike & Scooter Riders & Riding Responsibly
E-scooters & bikes offer a convenient and accessible way to travel. However, ensuring their safe use is essential to protecting all road users, including pedestrians, children, and individuals using mobility devices. As such, we are reminding riders and motorists of the following key rules and safety considerations:
E-scooters must be used in bike lanes or on the shoulder of the roadway, not on sidewalks (sidewalk use may result in a $150 fine).
- Riders must be at least 16 years of age.
- Helmets are mandatory for riders under 18 and strongly encouraged for all users.
- Riders should wear bright or reflective clothing to remain visible.
- E-scooters must be equipped with a bell or horn, as well as front (white) and rear (red) lights for use at dusk and nighttime.
- The same rules apply as for other vehicles: do not ride distracted or impaired.
- E-scooters are designed for one rider only—passengers are not permitted.
- E-scooter use is not permitted on NCC cycling paths or within the ByWard Market.
NEIGHBOURHOODWATCH: LRT Crime Prevention and Public Safety
In 2024, there were 4,345 Provincial Criminal Offences on the OC Transpo system. In 2025, there were a total of 1,239 occurrences at Blair Station (including both bus and rail). On April 16, the Cardinal Creek and Blackburn Hamlet Community Associations Co-chaired the 2nd East Ottawa Neighbourhood Watch (NWP) Committee meeting at the Ray Friel Centre. 35 participants from 10 different community associations took part to look at what efforts are underway in regards to LRT Crime Prevention and Public Safety, and how it may affect neighbourhoods in east end Ottawa.
Our speakers for the evening event were: Peter Scislowski, Chief Special Constable, OC Transpo, Sergeant Stephane Fournier and Denis Hull, Staff Sergeant, Ottawa Police Service and Officer Abdouli of Ottawa Bylaw Services.
One highlight of the evening was the discussion by Chief Scislowski on LRT activity. Chief Scislowski noted that the two primary groups that make up the Special Constable Unit (SCU) are the Special Constables and Fare Inspectors. Special Constables hold the same authority as a police officer on or in relation to transit properties and assets. Fare Inspectors are responsible for verifying transit fares and enforcing fare related by laws across the transit system.
Chief Scislowski emphasized that public safety on transit is a shared responsibility. However, if you ever need help you can:
- Contact 9-1-1 in an emergency;
- Contact Special Constable Unit Dispatch (SPU) at 613-741-2478;
- Contact SPU by using the yellow emergency call boxes in stations or park & rides;
- Report any suspicious or criminal behaviour to OC Transpo through the digital report form.
The Ottawa Police (OPS) provided an overview of the crime prevention strategies they will be employing over the coming months in anticipation of the increased traffic from LRT into the neighbourhoods. The OPS continues to be a strong supporter of the Neighbourhood Watch Program.
We are also appreciative to Councillor Matt Luloff for his financial support of the site and refreshments.