Norwalk considering new golf-cart legislation

Norwalk Law Director Stuart O'Hara said new state laws involving golf carts are complicated.On Thursday, O'Hara provided an update about what these laws could mean to Norwalk."Two state laws, Ohio Revised Code 4511.214 and 4511.215, go into effect on Jan. 1," the law director said.O'Hara said 4511.214 "basically allows low-speed vehicles to travel on roads not greater than 35 mph.The law director added 4511.215 also allows under-speed vehicles on roadways not greater than 35 mph if the local legislative authority — in our case, city council — adopts an ordinance allowing it.A low-speed vehicle is a vehicle with three or four wheels that travels at a maximum speed of 25 mph, according to the law. An under-speed vehicle is a vehicle with three or four wheels that travels at a maximum speed of 20 mph.O'Hara said golf carts fall into the under-speed vehicle category."The result of all of this is, unless the city takes action, golf carts will not be allowed on city streets on Jan. 1," he said.But, it appears the city is taking action in the form of new legislation to be presented Tuesday."The new (proposed) legislation limits them (golf carts) on streets that are 25 mph," O'Hara said. "Golf carts will be able to cross a 35-mph street or state route at an established intersection. An established intersection is where two streets come together."O'Hara said an established intersection doesn't need to include a traffic light.City council members asked recently how a golf cart could access the community center, which is surrounded by 35-mph zones."I guess, you don't," O'Hara said. "The idea is not to make the city golf-cart accessible. There are some serious safety issues involved."O'Hara