ATVs, UTVs given the green light to operate in PdC within a few weeks
By Correne Martin
ATVs and UTVs will be able to utilize routes in the city of Prairie du Chien as soon as signs are up and a public notice is published twice in the Courier Press. After multiple meetings and hearing from a conservation authority on the matter, the Prairie du Chien Common Council finally approved an ordinance establishing this new option in the city for recreational enthusiasts.
The new ordinance, detailed in chapter 7.07 (13) of the municipal code, will allow operation of all-terrain and utility terrain vehicles on all city streets, unless posted. However, there is going to be a designed route the city prefers such travelers use most of the time.
The designated route is the most direct trail north and south, according to Mayor Dave Hemmer. It does include portions of Highway 18–mainly the bypass—a number of the roads on St. Feriole Island, County K and some back streets to and from businesses in the downtown district and Marquette Road business district.
City Administrator Chad Abram said the most recent change to the ordinance draft since the Aug. 20 council meeting was to put back in verbiage allowing ATVs and UTVs on all St. Feriole Island streets, rather than limiting access there. Public works committee chair Todd Myers said the city and Crawford County Ridge Runners ATV/UTV Club may work together to ensure signage states that off-roading is particularly not allowed on the island.
The city will make an official announcement once the routes are ready for travel. Then, hours of operation will be from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. within the city limits.
Abram reiterated that all children under 18 must be wearing a helmet while riding or driving these vehicles in the city and that proper insurance and registration will be necessary as well.
He also noted that this ordinance is only approved on a trial basis for one year, until Sept. 15, 2020. The mayor has the right to open or close any or all of the routes due to safety considerations if that becomes necessary, before taking the issue up with committee within 60 days.
Sculpture park request
The council heard a special presentation from artist Florence Bird, representing the Mississippi River Sculpture Park on St. Feriole Island. She asked the council to consider gifting $12,900 to the park so that the sixth statue, Aunt Marianne LaBuche, can be installed. She also proposed consideration of putting a small percentage of the yearly city budget toward the park so that the remaining 20 sculptures can be installed in a more timely manner, making the park a national monument and attraction.
