Grove City’s safety director briefed council on state law and a local outreach campaign aimed at reducing injuries involving e‑scooters and other low‑speed micromobility devices.

Kevin Tiefer said the Ohio Revised Code regulates these devices and allows them on streets, highways, sidewalks and shared‑use paths, subject to the same traffic signs and signals as bicycles. He said operators must yield to pedestrians when passing on sidewalks or multi‑use paths, issue an audible signal before passing, and use a red reflector or light at night for visibility. Tiefer noted that the city’s local ordinance only defines the device; enforcement relies on the state code. He added that local jurisdictions may impose restrictions or prohibitions if council desires.

Tiefer introduced a new outreach campaign, Keep It Cool, Ride by the Rules, that will be promoted through Southwest City Schools, Grove City Christian School and Parks and Recreation programs, and will target youth riders and parents. “Our new campaign … is called Keep It Cool, Ride by the Rules,” he said.

When asked about crash frequency, Tiefer said the city has recorded five crashes involving scooters in the last three years; he said none were serious injury crashes but that injuries did occur. Council members asked for further information on crash timing and an update on the outreach rollout as the program is implemented.

Tiefer said the city will use educational messaging, school partnerships and parks programming to reach riders and parents and will share more details as the campaign is rolled out.