Durango city councilors will consider imposing a 10 mph speed limit on the Animas River Trail or other hard-surface, multiple-use trails within city limits at their Tuesday meeting.
According to a news release from the city, the speed limit will apply to bicycles, scooters, skateboards or similar wheeled objects, regardless if they are motorized. If someone were to be caught exceeding the speed limit, the violator could receive a $100 fine.
“Enforcement would be carried out by the city’s Police Department, primarily by the Open Space Rangers, who would have the authority to issue citations,” the release said. “Officers can use their discretion. If you make no effort to slow down for others, you will most likely be ticketed.”
According to the release, the proposal comes after an increase in incidents between users riding e-bikes, traditional bicycles or similar devices in an unsafe manner that puts themselves and other users at risk of injury.
The release referred to how the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials’ Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities does not specify a maximum speed for bicyclists along trails. Instead, the association recommends that speed limits should be based on the preferred speed of the fastest common user, which in this case, the city determined to be 10 mph.
“The limit, created by ordinance, is designed to enhance safety for all trail users,” the release said. “Reasonable speeds are required at all times and this ordinance mandates a 10 mph limit when faster users encounter walkers and other slower users.”
Fines would apply to all users, even if they are under 18 years of age. Speed limit signs would be installed along the trail as soon as possible after the ordinance is passed. Additionally, formal traffic rules that apply to motor vehicles will not be enforced, though the courtesy of yielding, slowing down around blind corners and announcing oneself before passing another user are expected, the release said.
“Formal traffic rules do not apply on the trail system; however, courtesy is expected,” the release said.
There are some caveats to the rule, the release said. For instance, if no other users are around, bikers can go faster than 10 mph, though they are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and be prepared to slow down.
“The law allows people to ride together in the same direction faster than 10 mph, provided other trail users are not present,” the release said.
The release said that 10 mph can be estimated to be the same speed of a fast run, not a sprint.
Community members will be able to comment on the ordinance and other matters relating to city business at Tuesday’s meeting. The meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. in the Smith Chambers at Durango City Hall or online.
sedmondson@durangoherald.com
