On a recent weekday after summer vacations began, six boys on bicycles, electric bikes and scooters seemed to be playing a game of tag on wheels.
They sped along sidewalks, around the movie theater parking lot and in the middle of New Barn Road, headed toward Main Street.
While the kids seemed to be having a fun, carefree time, the races could have turned tragic.
Luckily the bikes didn’t hit pedestrians and none of the kids were struck by cars.
Most were not wearing helmets, though state law requires them to be worn by a rider younger than 16.
Their e-bikes resembled either a dirt bike or a regular bicycle, with a small motor. Manufacturers say e-bikes can reach speeds of 20 mph or more.
Town officials and The Graham Companies want to remind cyclists, pedestrians and drivers to share public spaces.
“I noticed an electronic bicycle going very fast on the 67th Avenue sidewalk by CVS Pharmacy, and was concerned about a pedestrian being struck,” Carlos Andres, chair of the Miami Lakes Public Safety Committee, said in an email.
Florida law currently allows e-bikes, non-motorized bikes and “micro-mobility devices” or scooters, to ride on sidewalks, though they must yield to those on foot.
The Town has not adopted an ordinance to prohibit their use, Deputy Town Attorney Lorenzo Cobiella said in an email.
Drivers must share the road with bike riders, too.
“Bicycles can ride on streets if they’re not committing traffic infractions,” Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Maj. Jose Gonzalez said.
If a bicyclist ignores stop signs or red lights, rides against traffic and doesn’t yield to walkers, an officer who witnesses it could issue a citation, Gonzalez said.
The Graham Companies has private security patrolling its properties, including around Main Street, the sidewalks and the Lake Patricia, Lake Katharine, Park Centre Shops and Cypress Village shopping centers.
Miami-Dade Sheriff’s deputies patrol the cross streets and other roads in town to try and keep residents safe.
Parents will want to remember that a curfew for minors on Main Street begins at 8 p.m.
Anyone younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult and IDs will be checked.
One parent or guardian may chaperone up to three minors, who may include the adult’s children.
“I believe we speak for all Miami Lakers that our community is known for its family-friendly environment,” said Andrea Graham Rechichi, vice president, Corporate Relations for The Graham Companies.
“By ensuring public safety rules are followed, families can gather, our local businesses can continue to prosper, and all who visit can experience what makes Miami Lakes special.”