Officials explore alternative riding areas following Medea complaints

At the May 28 Municipal Advisory Council meeting, Oak Park residents raised concerns about e-bike activity on biker-built dirt trails and jumps near Medea Creek. They cited safety risks, damage to the environment, and aggressive rider behavior; longtime resident Brian Hennessey said the situation has escalated compared with past use of the jumps.

MAC member Brian Trushinski reported attending a Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District meeting and described severe damage to a sensitive oak grove and wetlands, noting soil compaction from e-bikes. He said he spoke with about two dozen regular riders who come from Oak Park, Westlake Village, Agoura Hills and Calabasas. Residents also told the board they feel unsafe riding with young children, that a dog-walker now avoids the trail fearing a collision, and that riders sometimes shout profanity and create noise in the neighborhood. Rancho Simi board member Eric Lundstrum said park rangers have increased their presence at reported hot spots.

Trushinski proposed that Rancho Simi look for a different piece of parkland—he mentioned a site near Lindero with no nearby homes—where riders could have a dedicated area, and suggested forming a committee that would include planners and youth riders. Lundstrum said riders he spoke with supported finding additional open space because Medea Creek is too small, and he will explore locations and the possibility of a committee. The next Oak Park MAC meeting is set for 7 p.m. on June 25 in Room G9 at Oak Park High School.

This is a plain-language summary written for The Block. Read the original article for full details.