After Weeks of Discussion, All Streets in the City of Neillsville Open to ATV/UTV Use With a Couple Exceptions
Thursday, June 13th, 2019 -- 9:47 AM
-After weeks of discussion and public input, both positive and negative, the City of Neillsville has approved a new temporary ordinance opening all city streets to ATVs.The discussion to open up all of the city’s streets to ATV use began after the state, and then county, changed the law regarding ATV use on highways. All of Clark County’s trunk highways are now open to ATV use. Those that have been in support of the change have said it will help clear up confusion for riders in the city, it will be fair for everybody and it will be a boon to Neillsville businesses. Those against the change are concerned about noise issues, accidents, traffic issues and even the age of the riders on city streets. The council approved rescinding the city’s previous ordinance that had designated routes for ATVs and approved a new ordinance that designated all city streets in the City of Neillsville open to ATV and UTV use. There are a couple exceptions. You can't ride an ATV/UTV on Highway 73 including the portions of Hewett Street, Black River Road and Grand Avenue in the locations they travel along Highway 73 to the city limits. Also you can't ride your ATV/UTV on Highway 10 including the portion of Division Street that travels along Highway 10 to the city limits. For example, you can't ride your ATV or UTV right through downtown Neillsville or along Highway 10 on the south end of town. However, state and county rules do allow you to cross a major highway to get to another portion of town or to another portion of a trail.
Keep in mind, this new ordinance could be rescinded as well. The council only approved this because they will be revisiting the issue at their first meeting in September, which is September 10th. If there have been no major issues or complaints, the council will consider leaving the city streets open permanently. But, if issues do arise, they will then put the original ordinance back in place. Speed limit signs for ATV’s/UTV’s still apply and riders must still abide by all state rules and regulations when it comes to ATV use.
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.