WEST BLOOMFIELD -- Sixty-eight miles of pathways that meander across West Bloomfield were designed to give residents a safe way to journey across the expansive suburb, known for its rich wetlands, woodlands and wildlife.
But instead of encountering critters and fresh air on their expedition, some residents say they fear for life and limb as teens barrel down the trails on motorized scooters, mopeds and skateboards.
Complaints to the township were serious enough this summer that the township board directed its attorneys to research what restrictions -- if any -- could be placed on the paths to make them safe for users.
Signs posted across the township clearly ban motorized vehicles on the path, which consists of pavement along roads and subdivisions and boardwalk across some of the more environmentally sensitive areas.
West Bloomfield Police patrol the safety paths on bicycles, but Lt. John Himmelspach said it's nearly impossible to chase down offenders who have a clear advantage on a motorized scooter, moped or skateboard.
"We try to enforce it, it's just more difficult to do so. We have written tickets in the past, but we usually just remind people they cannot use them," Himmelspach said. "
It's usually the kids that aren't driving yet, the 12 to 15 crowd."
Limiting the use of motorized vehicles on the pathways has raised the concern of a
physically disabled resident who drives a golf cart on the trails to make his way around the township.
Kerry Mayle says the problem is parents who let their teens run amok on the paths with their motorized toys. The township, Mayle says, should not further limit slow-moving vehicles like his.
"
A disabled person... has the right to choose what may be the best possible type of transportation," Mayle said.
David Flaisher, township supervisor, said the township would comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act.
No injuries have been reported so far, but some people have said they had to jump out of the way of an offender or they would have gotten run over.
Bicyclist Linda King said she would have no problem sharing the path with mopeds and scooters
if they went slow.
You can reach Jennifer Chambers at (248) 647-7402 or
jchambers@detnews.com.
