Council asking for other areas to be part of provincial golf cart pilot

While one area of town is being included as part of the provincial golf cart pilot project, town council is now seeking even more.

As reported in last week’s issue of the River Town Times, Bois Blanc (Boblo) Island was approved by the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) to be part of the project. 

Raj Cheema, manager of the road safety program development office with the MTO, shared the news via letter to the town, noting golf carts can operate on Bois Blanc Island during the “riding season” between April 1-Nov. 30.

Cheema’s letter states: “The pilot regulation (Ontario Reg. 407/21) sets out the broad regulatory framework to allow golf carts in specified municipalities. It outlines specific operator and vehicle safety requirements. The pilot is intended to assess these vehicles for a defined period ending on June 3, 2031, to examine their ability to safely integrate with other vehicle types and determine whether existing rules of the road are adequate.”

Councillor Linden Crain called it “great news” and wanted an update on the required bylaw. CAO Valerie Crichley said the bylaw will come back in July.

Clerk Kevin Fox, in response to a question from Councillor Don McArthur, said a report is also coming. Fox said there are requirements for golf carts and a public education program will also be forthcoming.

Town council is now aiming for even more approvals for areas within the municipality. Councillor Peter Courtney put forth a motion that Lakewood Beach, Bar Point and Willow Beach to the pilot project.

“You get no through-traffic. It’s literally a small rural pocket of privacy. Most people don’t even know about it when they pass by County Road 20 that there’s even houses back there,” he said.

Courtney said it’s “a try” and one with little cost. 

Councillor Diane Pouget asked if that includes the same area council members are getting complaints about.

“I can’t support that,” she said. 

Town council voted 6-1 to send a letter with only Pouget opposed.

Requirements for golf cart operation under the program include being on designated roads with speed limits of 50 km/h for two to six people, service and parking brakes, a rear-view mirror, a horn, good-quality tires, daytime running lights, turn signals, brake lights, reflectors, and a slow-moving vehicle sign. 

Council asking for other areas to be part of provincial golf cart pilot

By Ron Giofu