Council adopts policy to accommodate disabilities

People with mobility disabilities can get out and enjoy Superior’s trail system with the help of power-driven mobility devices.

Superior’s City Council approved a policy Tuesday that allows people with mobility limitations apply for a permit to use devices such as all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, power scooters, golf carts, Segways and other devices weighing less than 1,000 pounds on trails in the city.

The policy was approved last month by the Parks and Recreation Commission after an evaluation of the city’s trail system.

Speeds along the trail would be limited to 5 mph for anyone using a power-driven mobility device.

Trails that could be used year round include the Osaugie Trail along the waterfront from F Street to Moccasin Mike Road, the Millennium Trail from Elmira to Wyoming avenues, the Grandview Estates Trail west of New York Avenue. The Crosstown Trail and some of the cross-country trails in the Superior Municipal Forest would be usable when the ground is frozen. In the forest, the use of mobility devices would end on the ski trails when the ski season begins.

No power-driven mobility devices would be allowed any time of the year on the Wisconsin Point Hiking Trail from Wisconsin Point Road to Lake Superior.

The state recognizes that some trails and recreational areas may not be appropriate for the use of power-driven mobility devices because of public safety, pedestrian volume, trail characteristics, or risk of harm to natural and cultural resources.

Trails were assessed based on the width and base of the trail, grade changes and the presence of wetlands.

Permits would be assessed on a case-by-case basis and may be issued with conditions.

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