The GRPD is reminding residents that pedal bicycles and electric bicycles are allowed on the greenbelt, but motorcycles and dirt bikes are not.
As the weather gets warmer, more and more people are once again taking advantage of the Green River Greenbelt. To ensure the safety of all the greenbelt users, the Green River Police Department is reminding everyone about the laws, regulations, and etiquette regarding the use of motorcycles, bicycles, and electric bicycles in the city and on the greenbelt.
The GRPD stressed that, while pedal bicycles and electric bicycles are allowed on the greenbelt, motorcycles are not allowed to be ridden on the greenbelt or in any other areas not designated for them.
Motorcycles, including dirt bikes, are considered motor vehicles under State Statute and must be street legal, registered, and insured to be used anywhere within the city limits of Green River, the GRPD explained in a press release. In addition, motorcycles may only be driven on roadways designated for motor vehicles.
"As such, their use is strictly prohibited on the Greenbelt, Skyline Trail, and/or any other area not designated for their use," the GRPD said.
Driving a motorcycle in prohibited areas is a violation of City Ordinance 24-3, which states that "It shall be unlawful to ride, drive, operate or propel any motor vehicle, within the city except on properly dedicated, designated or established streets, roads, and alleys."
"As motorcycle operation on the Greenbelt and Skyline Trail area is inherently dangerous, Green River PD will be taking a no-tolerance policy to their use in this area," the GRPD said. "Understand that operating a motorcycle at slow speeds while on the Greenbelt will not relieve you from being stopped and cited by officers. Please follow the laws regarding their use or expect to receive a citation."
Pedal bicycles and electric bicycles are not considered motor vehicles by State Statute, so they may be ridden on the Greenbelt.
"However, caution must still be used to ensure that their use is not harmful or dangerous to the rider, or to others enjoying the greenbelt area," the GRPD added.
Simple rules of etiquette the police department wants people to consider when riding a bike or e-bike on the greenbelt include staying on the right side of the trail, not congregating on the path, giving warning when passing and slowing down when approaching pedestrians.
"Most importantly, be courteous and friendly," the GRPD said. "The Greenbelt area is a special area that was designed for multiple uses, and for the enjoyment of everyone. We, as a City, are lucky to have this area for outdoor recreational pursuits, and we have to work together as a community to ensure that it is a safe place for everyone's enjoyment. This is dependent on all users being courteous, friendly, and considerate to each other, while following the law. Please go out of your way to ensure that you are taking care of each other, and helping each other to enjoy the Greenbelt and all that it provides."
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