WHEREAS, The price of gasoline continues to rise to unprecedented levels, the country’s dependence on oil continues to grow and pollution derived from carbon emissions causes harm to the environment. Fuel efficiency has become a laudable trait in vehicles and fuel efficient vehicles are more popular among consumers; and
WHEREAS, Motor-driven cycles, as defined by the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, include motorcycles, scooters and mopeds. Each of these vehicles provide a viable fuel efficient alternative to cars and other vehicles; and
WHEREAS, Scooters, in particular, may receive gas mileage up to 200 miles per gallon and are ideal for short commutes and errands. Sales of scooters have risen by 24% nationwide and some dealers in the Philadelphia region report sales are up by 200%; and
WHEREAS, While the number of scooters and motorcycles in Philadelphia has increased, options for parking these vehicles are limited. Under a City law enacted to address problems surrounding “biker bars,” only one motor-driven cycle is permitted to park in an on-street parking spot and under state law, it is illegal to park motor-driven cycles on sidewalks; and
WHEREAS, In 2005, City Council enacted Bill Number 050864 in an effort to address these parking problems. However, the legislation required that Bill Number 050863 also be enacted. Because of valid concerns raised by the disabled community, Bill Number 050863 was withdrawn by the sponsor. In negotiations, however, the Philadelphia Streets Department and the Philadelphia Parking Authority agreed to investigate alternatives to provide parking for motor-driven cycles; and
WHEREAS, Motor-driven cycles require less space for parking but also mandate specific security needs; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Calls on the office of the Deputy Mayor for Transportation and Public Utilities and the Philadelphia Parking Authority to explore the creation of parking opportunities for motor-driven cycles, including motorcycles and scooters, throughout the City of Philadelphia and authorizes City Council’s Committee on Streets and Services to hold public hearings on the Department’s findings and further examine methods to increase parking for these vehicles.
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