April 4, 2023 10:50 a.m. 

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is accepting public comments on proposed changes to Oregon Administrative Rules guiding the Scenic Bikeways program.

An OPRD release said the proposed rules changes apply to scenic bikeways definitions, committee makeup and committee processes, and include:

*expanding the number of public-at-large seats on the Scenic Bikeways Committee

*changing required committee affiliation criteria

*clarifying the committee quorum

*clarifying establishment of new route process and expanding the definitions

*amending the definition of “Bicycle Path” to “Improved Public Ways”

*adding accessibility language to include electric assisted bicycles, wheelchairs and other adaptive equipment

*expanding the criteria for establishing new routes by adding the following: “minimizing adaptive effects and conflicts between other existing recreation user types”

A virtual public hearing is set for April 19th at 6:00 p.m. for those wanting to comment or learn more about the proposed rule changes. Registration is required to participate and can be completed at: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rjxn3vI1SqmwaZbTkMNneA#/registration