MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Coon Rapids Launches "Safe Trails Make Happy Trails" Campaign Amid Growing E-Bike and Trail Traffic

COON RAPIDS, MN (June 7, 2026) As electric bicycles, scooters, and other forms of micromobility become an increasingly common presence on local pathways, the City of Coon Rapids is launching a new public education campaign aimed at improving safety and reducing conflicts along its extensive trail network.

The initiative, titled "Safe Trails Make Happy Trails," seeks to encourage courteous trail behavior and raise awareness of shared-use safety practices among walkers, runners, cyclists, e-bike riders, scooter users, pet owners, and families who use the city's more than 40 miles of trails.

Supported through a State Health Improvement Program (SHIP) grant administered by Anoka County, the campaign reflects a growing recognition among local governments that trail systems are serving a wider range of users traveling at increasingly different speeds.

City officials say the effort is intended to address community concerns while promoting a positive experience for everyone who uses Coon Rapids' trail infrastructure.

"We just wanted to bring attention to safety concerns that the community has out on our trail system," city staff said in announcing the initiative.

The campaign arrives as communities across Minnesota continue adapting to the rapid growth of electric-assisted transportation. E-bikes and e-scooters have expanded recreational and transportation opportunities for many residents, but their ability to travel at higher speeds than traditional bicycles has also prompted discussions about safety, awareness, and trail etiquette on shared pathways.

A System Built for Shared Use

Coon Rapids maintains one of the larger municipal trail networks in the northern Twin Cities metropolitan area. The system connects neighborhoods, parks, schools, commercial districts, and regional recreation corridors, serving thousands of residents throughout the year.

While city officials emphasize that most trail users are respectful and responsible, they say even small misunderstandings between users traveling at different speeds can create safety concerns.

To reinforce best practices, the city is installing educational signage throughout the trail system highlighting what it calls the "Three Trail Truths."

The Three Trail Truths

The campaign's central message is built around three straightforward guidelines designed to improve predictability and reduce conflicts on shared-use paths.

Stay to the Right

Trail users are encouraged to remain on the right side of the pathway, pass on the left, and provide an audible warning when approaching from behind. Whether using a bell, verbal signal, or other alert, advance notice helps reduce surprises and allows slower users to maintain awareness of their surroundings.

Go a Safe Speed

The city recommends traveling at a safe and controlled pace, particularly when approaching pedestrians, children, pets, or congested sections of trail. Campaign materials encourage users, especially those operating battery-assisted devices, to maintain speeds of approximately 15 miles per hour or less on shared pathways whenever conditions warrant.

Share the Space

Officials are also reminding residents that trails are public spaces intended for users of varying ages and abilities. Keeping eyes up, remaining alert, avoiding distractions, and ensuring pets remain properly leashed can help create a safer environment for everyone.

"We will be putting out some yard signs along our trails," city staff explained. "Those include moving over for slower traffic, making sure you're aware of your surroundings, and alerting people if you're coming up on them."

Community Engagement Through the Happy Trails Pledge

In addition to signage and public outreach, the city has introduced an online Happy Trails Pledge, encouraging residents to formally commit to safe trail practices.

The pledge is hosted through the city's campaign website and features Rocky the Raccoon, the initiative's mascot.

Residents who complete the pledge may visit Coon Rapids City Hall, 11155 Robinson Drive NW, during normal business hours to receive a complimentary safety-themed item while supplies last.

Available incentives include a multi-purpose bicycle tool and a reflective safety sash designed to improve visibility during evening and low-light trail use.

City leaders hope the pledge program will help transform safety awareness into daily habits that benefit the broader community.

"They do that pledge, they can come to City Hall, and we've got a couple different prizes," city staff said. "We've got a bike tool as well as a safety sash that people can wear out on our trail system and make it a great experience for everybody."

Encouraging Courtesy Before Conflict

At its core, the campaign is less about enforcement than education.

Rather than introducing new regulations, city officials are focusing on cultivating a culture of awareness and mutual respect among trail users whose experiences, abilities, and travel speeds may differ significantly.

As trail usage continues to evolve alongside advances in personal mobility technology, local leaders say simple habits such as slowing down, staying alert, communicating when passing, and respecting shared space remain among the most effective tools for preventing accidents.

For a city that has invested heavily in parks, recreation amenities, and connected trail corridors, officials hope the message resonates.

After all, the goal is reflected in the campaign's name itself: creating trails that are not only active and accessible, but safe and enjoyable for everyone who uses them.

Residents can learn more, view trail etiquette guidelines, access trail maps, and take the Happy Trails Pledge by visiting the City's dedicated campaign page at: coonrapidsmn.gov/happytrails.

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