The Franklin City Council voted 4‑2 on Dec. 1 to amend Ordinance 25‑09, permitting regulated golf‑cart operation on a 0.27‑mile (1,400‑foot) segment of the Franklin Greenway Trail that runs under State Road 31.

City Attorney Lynn Gray introduced the amendment as a response to changes INDOT made during reconstruction of State Road 31 that removed signalized crossing options and prompted residents to ask for a safe way to cross without traveling on SR‑31. City Engineer Matt McElroy presented an exhibit describing the proposal: pavement markings, "No carts beyond this point" signs, "golf carts sharing the trail" signs, chevrons at curves, and pairs of solar‑powered beacons with sensor repeaters to warn trail users approaching blind turns.

The council held a public hearing before voting. Opponents argued the trail was designed for pedestrians, runners and cyclists and that allowing carts would increase collision risk. Dr. Kim Eiler, a long‑time Franklin resident, said the 2016 ordinance explicitly prohibited motorized vehicles on trails and warned, "Golf carts can travel faster than walkers, runners, and cyclists, significantly increasing the risk of accidents and collisions." Concerns included narrow sections under the bridge, sharp curves, and how the city would enforce violations.

Supporters, including Kevin Cooper and a Franklin Lakes resident identified only as Jennifer, said the limited stretch restored access cut off by the SR‑31 construction and would be safer than forcing carts onto busy roadways. Jennifer said exhibits showing sensors and lights "would make sense" and that when she and other residents could not safely cross SR‑31 they had used the trail instead.

Police Chief Cochran told the council the department would continue enforcement but acknowledged limitations. He said the city had issued 219 permits from January through late October and that there were 408 registered golf‑cart vehicles in Franklin. He also noted recent enforcement actions, including two DUIs involving golf carts.

Council members debated alternatives and regulatory details. A motion to deny the ordinance failed on a roll‑call vote (2 in favor, 4 opposed). A subsequent motion to amend and approve Ordinance 25‑09 carried by a 4‑2 roll call: Mr Austin Yes; Mr Schuck Yes; Miss McGinnis No; Miss Nally Yes; Mr Prime No; Mr Taylor Yes.

The council and staff agreed the amendment will not take effect until required signage and sensor beacons are installed and the ordinance is republished to include fines and fees. City Attorney Gray said the city would republish the ordinance and that there is a roughly 30‑day window to get signs in place before implementation.

What happens next: the city will proceed with procurement and installation of signage and the beacons described in the exhibit; the police department said it would assign bicycle patrol and consider additional camera deterrents as resources permit.