ATVs could get more access to roadways, MnDOT concerned about safety

A Minnesota House bill would expand ATV access to some roads across Minnesota.

“The bill is critically important for greater Minnesota cities and rural communities, where ATVs are not just for recreation but also a practical mode of transportation. This bill will help cities better integrate ATVs into their local transportation networks, boosting tourism local economies,” said Ely Republican Representative Roger Skraba who authored the legislation.

Opponents cite safety concerns with having ATVs on more roadways.

“Having ATVs operate with or near heavier and faster moving vehicles is not consistent with our Towards Zero Deaths goals. A lot of 30 to 45 mph trunk highways are also multi lane. Their size and design make them difficult to see, imagine trying to see an ATV behind a large pickup and they don’t have safety features to reduce the consequence of higher speed crashes. The DNR, the DPS, Office of Traffic Safety and the state patrols share our serious concerns about safety,” says MnDOT Assistant State Traffic Engineer Ken Johnson.

The bill would allow a town or city with a population under 25,000 to adopt an ordinance that allows ATVs to operate on a roadway or trunk highway shoulder and is currently moving through committee.