SUMMIT, Wis. — Waukesha County is launching a pilot program that will allow all-terrain vehicles and utility terrain vehicles to share some county roads with cars.
WATCH: Riders ready as Waukesha County tries ATV and UTV routes on county roads
Roads in the communities of Dousman, Ottawa and Summit will be open to ATVs and UTVs starting May 29. The county plans to run the program for one year before deciding whether to expand it.
Allison Bussler, the Waukesha County Department of Public Works director, said the program came after requests from local communities.
"A few communities have asked us to designate certain county roads opened to ATV and UTVs," Bussler said.
Not every road will be eligible for the program.
"We don't think every road is the right candidate but we would like to try," Bussler said. "It seems a better match in the more rural areas."
The DPW said it chose areas near Jefferson County, where ATVs and UTVs are already allowed on roads countywide. Officials also targeted areas near local attractions.
For riders like Matt Wedig, a member of the Okauchee Area ATV/UTV Club, the news has been a longtime coming. Wedig and his dog Bear frequently ride their UTV but have been unable to use the county roads surrounding their home.
"We have been waiting two and half years for this," Wedig said.
Wedig said he is looking forward to finally being able to ride in his own community.
"Just want to go out on a nice summer day and enjoy the country side like they would with their convertible or their motorcycle," Wedig said.
Signs designating the approved ATV and UTV routes are already going up ahead of the May 29 opening date.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with theassistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
It’s about time to watch on your time. Stream local news and weather 24/7 by searching for “TMJ4” on your device.
Available for download on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and more.
