WHEREAS, Philadelphia is home to a culture, often underground, of riding dirtbikes, ATVs, and other unauthorized vehicles on City streets across Philadelphia. While the stunts performed are impressive, the hobby is dangerous for both riders and residents when taking place on the public roadway; and
WHEREAS, Even with strong laws in place, illegal ridership has not decreased. Citizens continue to express concern about traffic safety and noise disturbances and riders continue to risk their lives with no alternative space to go; and
WHEREAS, In 2016, City Council, led by Councilmembers Jones and Johnson, began a conversation on possibly creating an ATV park for people to go and ride their bikes in a safer way. Now is the time to revisit that conversation; and
WHEREAS, An ATV park would provide safer conditions for the riders and for everyone using public roads. Much like skateboarders found an enjoyable alternative to Love Park in Paine’s Park, ATV riders would benefit from a similar space to ride; and
WHEREAS, City Council is committed to examining the issue from all perspectives. Previously, some riders have expressed to City government that ATV culture is a fun and meaningful alternative to other activities which often lead to danger, violence, and incarceration. Evidence suggests a benefit to encouraging this culture beyond simply reducing noise pollution and traffic violations; and
WHEREAS, The hearing will also examine the efficacy of the current Code provisions on unauthorized vehicles including enforcement and any changes in the standards which might be needed; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, by the City Council of Philadelphia, That the Committee on Public Safety is authorized to hold a hearing examining the ongoing safety and noise issues with the use of ATV and other unauthorized vehicles on City streets and the possibility of creating a space for safely riding in Philadelphia.
End