A recent decision made by an Italian city, Como’s Mayor Alessandro Rapinesehas generated a lot of controversy because he banned bicycles on approximately thirty roads within the historic center of Como after he was run down with an electric bicycle.
Mayor Rapinese passed the ban due to the incident in June, where he was knocked down by an e-bike while exiting city hall. The restriction goes into effect in September and includes both electric and standard bicycles.
Cyclists are still able to enter the streets under the new law, however they would need to remove themselves and walk their bicycles through the restricted zones.
Mayor Rapinese said his personal experience showed him how hazardous fast moving bicycles can be for a crowd of tourists. “Individuals make decisions based on their individual experiences,” Rapinese said during an interview with an Italian news agency, ANSA, adding, “I am aware of being hit by one of these ‘beasts’.”
There is a great deal of anger coming from citizens, officials and biking advocates regarding the decision. Many believe that Rapinese turned a personal injury into a blanket ban throughout the entire city.
Those against the ban state that it may negatively affect those using bicycles for transportation which is environmentally friendly and also many delivery employees and local business owners.
There is a petition circulating among biking advocates to overturn the ordinance. They plan to hold a protest ride through the restricted streets in September.
2026-08-21 00:11:00
