Add to Or Edit The Dirt Bike Patterns Map
One thing you can do to help stop the use of illegal motorized vehicles is to contribute to the above map. Click Here (and then click the "edit" button) to add a route that you've observed to this map. Police can then use the information (data) on that map to help track the location of where these rides usually take place. By tracking the routes with a line that follows the roads they like to use, this helps police gather intelligence with regard to how to implement the present initiative.
Some kids like doing wheelies down the street at 40-50 miles per hour. And that's fine, except it's extremely dangerous and puts their lives, and the lives of drivers and pedestrians alike at risk.
Here is a map you can add to if you want to track the direction of dirt bike routes. For example, on the map is the route evidenced in the video below, which was filmed by members of the group depicted and later was put into the New Haven Independent.
Public Hearing
There was be a public hearing tomorrow at City Hall during the Board of Aldermen meeting (*see calendar). This was from Justin Elicker's (alderman ward 10) site:
"Please come share your opinion on the illegal operation of motorized dirt bike and ATVs. As we work to address the problem, I have called a public hearing on the issue. It is an opportunity for people to express their concerns about the dirt bike issue and for the City to talk about what we plan on doing to address the problem. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend and testify. If you haven't testified before, it's easy - you just come up to the front of the room, sit down at the table and talk for a few minutes. Some people will come with prepared remarks, others just speak from their heart."
If you've ever made your way into City Hall for anything other than to pay your taxes or a parking ticket, here's your chance to be a part of one of the most underrated public meetings around: the board of aldermen meeting, where Tuesday (tomorrow) night, 6:00pm, City Hall, 165 Church Street, 2nd Floor there will be a public hearing on the "Dirt Bike Problem."
Possible Solution: A Compromise Strategy
This reminds me of a time when skateboarding was rampant in New Haven. What actually solved the problem? More skateparks. Perhaps an accessible motocross course would be a better choice for kids who are interested in these kinds of activities. Does that pose more or less liability for the city than to have these kinds of street rides taking place? Respond as comments.
