Como Mayor Bans Bicycles in City Center Following Personal Collision
Alessandro Rapinese, the mayor of Como, Italy, has implemented a ban on bicycles within the city's historic walled center, effective September. This decision follows an incident in June where Mayor Rapinese was struck by an electric bicycle while leaving city hall. The ban requires cyclists, whether on e-bikes or traditional bicycles, to dismount and walk through approximately 30 designated streets. Mayor Rapinese defended the measure as necessary for public safety, particularly in an area frequented by tourists. He stated that his personal experience of being hit by a bicycle influenced his decision, emphasizing that people often act based on their experiences. The ban applies to all types of bicycles because Italian highway code does not differentiate between electric and traditional models. This move expands on previous restrictions, as rented e-scooters were banned from Como's city center in 2022. 
