New Hampton main street - No bicycles allowed!

Sun June 11 2006
Posted Jun 11, 2006
6,549

Thursday, June 8, 2006 2:21 PM CDT NEW HAMPTON - The summer months bring veritable freedom for local children. For many, the most difficult decision of the day is when to hit the pool and what time to be at the ball diamond. No matter the activity, the City and its businesses would like to remind youngsters traveling through town on bicycles, to steer clear of downtown! According to Iowa Code, it is against the law for any person to ride a bicycle on the sidewalk within a business district. Said district in New Hampton includes all blocks within the radius of Linn Avenue, Prospect Street, Water Avenue and Spring Street. Because Main Street and its surrounding blocks are highly trafficked by both motorists and pedestrians, it’s a dangerous place not only for the young bicyclists themselves, but for the unsuspecting patrons exiting local businesses who may be hurt. Those who are found riding their bikes on the sidewalks in those areas designated as unlawful, or who continue riding their bicycles after receiving a verbal warning from a police officer, can have their bicycle impounded and may be subjected to a fine. For the safety and well-being of all parties involved, parents are strongly encouraged to take their children downtown and show them specifically where they can and cannot ride their bikes. Children are reminded to stay off Main Street and its nearby blocks.