Petoskey debate over downtown bicycle rules centers on Pennsylvania Park and Greenway access

Petoskey City Council reopened debate on changes to Chapter 21 of the municipal code that would restrict bicycle use in parts of the Central Business District, including portions of Pennsylvania Park and some sidewalk areas, during its July 6 meeting.

Councilmember Jay Wilmot moved to accept the ordinance as written for its second reading. The motion prompted extended debate among council members about the Greenway's role as a shared-use path and whether the city should require bicyclists to dismount in narrow sections. Councilmember Lindsay Walker and others said the changes are intended to protect vulnerable pedestrians (children and older residents) and give public safety a framework to act when riders are speeding or creating hazards. Opponents urged exemptions for parts of the Greenway that were created as an 8-foot multiuse path and called for a comprehensive update to the 2015 nonmotorized plan before enacting broad prohibitions.

Public comment was extensive. Olivia Rollinger, who bikes to work daily and rides the Greenway, asked the council to "please continue to allow bikers safe passage through the city on the sidewalks and on the Greenway," saying she would not feel safe riding in narrow streets. Emily Meyerson and other commenters provided crash data and argued the Greenway had few recorded incidents and is often safe; they urged signage, slower speeds and enforcement. Mark Tarquini and other residents said enforcing existing rules and incremental changes could be preferable to a blanket ban. Several speakers recommended a short-term ordinance or interim enforcement policy while staff completes a full plan update.

Council members discussed narrower alternatives such as banning bikes on Park Avenue or in front of storefronts, exempting the built Greenway corridor between Lake and Mitchell streets, or asking parks and recreation to identify safe bike corridors. Some members supported adopting an interim enforceable rule now to protect pedestrians; others said riders who rely on the Greenway for transportation (not recreation) would face an unreasonable barrier if required to dismount.

Outcome and next steps: The city did not adopt a final ordinance at this meeting; council heard public comment, debated multiple amendments and directed staff to pursue further outreach and an updated nonmotorized plan. Councilmembers expressed interest in commissioning a consultant to update the 2015 plan and in convening parks/downtown stakeholders for recommendations.

Why it matters: The outcome will shape whether Petoskey treats the Greenway primarily as a transportation corridor for cyclists or as a pedestrian-priority zone in high-traffic sections, an issue that affects residents, commuters, downtown businesses and tourism.

Ending: The council signaled that staff will prepare further analysis, and the topic will return for additional consideration and possible amendment at a future meeting.