The law would only take effect on roads with a speed limit higher than 30 mph and medians less than 4 feet wide. Anyone caught in violation of the median ban could face up to a $500 fine.
On Tuesday, the Colorado Springs City Council unanimously approved an ordinance restricting pedestrians from using certain medians.The council says the median ban will apply to everyone, including panhandlers, political activists, and firefighters raising funds for charities. Supporters of the ordinance say their goal is simple: safety. But those opposed to the law say it’s another attempt to target the homeless after Colorado Springs had to repeal its panhandling ordinance in 2016. In an attempt to alter specifics of the median ban, Council President Pro-Tem Jill Gaebler asked the council to consider initiating a 60-day education period, and Councilmen Bill Murray asked that the fine be reduced to $50 dollars. Both motions failed 6-3.On Feb. 14 the council will vote a final time before the ordinance is passed. Police will begin identifying medians gradually, and signs alerting pedestrians to the law will be posted in the area.
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