|
Solving a difficult problem— Windmill Gap ATV
solution a precedent
Many folks choose to live in rural communities for the peace and
harmony. For many, the sound of twittering birds and chirping crickets is
a musical medley, and the resounding quiet that accompanies country living
serves as a balm to the soul.
But in recent years nature’s song has been overtaken in many communities
by the sound of engines, exhaust systems and, at times, rowdy individuals
riding all-terrain vehicles.
There is, perhaps, no place where this conflict of cultures has become
more contentious then in the Windmill Gap area of Mercer County.
Long-time residents of southern West Virginia have often been aware of the
quiet life associated with this small community — located in what we
affectionately term “the boonies” — in one of the county’s most
picturesque regions.
It should be no surprise that many folks who live at Windmill Gap enjoy
their peace and quiet — and want it to stay that way. Yet in recent years
the community has become a draw for numerous ATV riders from near and far.
In August, residents living along the roadway in Windmill Gap complained
to county commissioners about the noise associated with the ATVs,
especially during evenings and weekends, and about harassment by
irresponsible riders.
Yet ATV enthusiasts and businesses catering to them countered that most of
the riders are responsible — especially those who travel to the region
from out of state. One business owner said 90 percent of these riders obey
the speed limit — but it’s the 10 percent causing problems.
In an effort to reach a compromise on this issue, the Mercer County
Commission voted earlier this week to limit the hours during which
all-terrain vehicles can be driven on Windmill Gap road. The measure bans
ATVs on the road from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. on weekends and during church
services on Sunday.
“This is a compromise measure,” County Commission President Joe Coburn
said in reference to the restrictions. “Everybody worked on it together.”
We are encouraged to see the commission take action to resolve this
problem. Certainly, it was not an easy issue to tackle.
When county residents who have opted to live in rural regions to enjoy the
quiet life have their space invaded, they have the right to have the issue
addressed. On the other side, we recognize that all-terrain vehicles are
becoming a big business in West Virginia, and have the potential to funnel
much-needed funds into the local economy.
The decision to attempt a compromise between riders and residents in the
Windmill Gap community is a good first step in solving the problem. And it
sets a precedent if — or when — similar issues occur in other regions of
the county.
We applaud the commissioners for their efforts in coming up with a
solution to the ATV problem that, we hope, will ultimately be acceptable
to those on both sides of the issue. |