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Council approves "Walk Your Wheels" markings and signage for Uptown blocks as ordinance change takes effect
Summary
Following an ordinance adjustment restricting bicycle riding on specified Uptown sidewalks, staff will install vertical signs and thermoplastic pavement markers to notify riders at key ramp locations; staff will order and install signs promptly unless council objects.
Council directed staff May 6 to proceed with installing signage and ground markings to implement a recently updated bicycle regulation that shortens the designated Uptown sidewalk riding restriction to three blocks.
Staff explained that the ordinance change (which shortened the restricted area) required public notification so riders know when sidewalks require dismounting. The initial plan places vertical signs at ramp and transition points and thermoplastic "Walk your wheels ahead" pavement circles at 17 locations concentrated on Sixth Avenue and selected stretches of Seventh and Eighth. Staff said the marking approach balances visibility with reduced vertical sign clutter.
The signs include two vertical messages: a small warning near ramps and a larger sign indicating the next three blocks where dismounting is required. Staff noted they will publish education information in the Marion Messenger and coordinate with the police department on enforcement and public outreach. A staff member said younger riders (guardians accompanying children 13 and under) remain permitted on the sidewalk under the ordinance.
Council asked about the life expectancy of thermoplastic pavement markings and possible additional locations. Staff said longevity depends on placement and traffic and that the city will monitor wear and add or adjust markings if needed. Unless council raises objections, staff said it will order and install the markers as soon as vendors are available.
Next steps: staff will procure and install the signs and thermoplastic pavement markings to implement the ordinance in Uptown and coordinate outreach and enforcement with the police department. No change to the ordinance text occurred at the work session; the markers are an implementation step.
