Mobility & Infrastructure
Committee Memorandum
TO: MOBILITY & INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE DATE: MAY 12, 2022 FROM: PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT WARDS: ALL
SUBJECT: PRESENTATION - PROPOSED MULTI-PERSON BIKE TOUR OPERATIONS IN THE CITY OF RIVERSIDE ISSUE:
Receive the presentation and provide direction on the proposed startup of a multi-person bike tour operations in the City of Riverside.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
That the Mobility & Infrastructure Committee:
Receive and file the presentation; and
Direct staff on whether to return to the Committee with draft guidelines and the appropriate RMC Revisions and Licenses to allow for the operation of Multi-Person Bike Tour operations within the City of Riverside.
DISCUSSION:
The Works Public Department has received two inquiries requesting to operate a multi-person bike tour operations in the Downtown and adjacent areas.
What are Multi-Person Bike Tour Operations?
Multi-person bike tour operations (also referred to as party bikes, pedal trolleys, pedal crawlers, pedal pubs, and bike bars) are multi-passenger human-powered vehicles. First introduced in The Netherlands, multi-person bike tours have grown in popularity over the last few decades and operate in cities across the country. Capacity typically ranges from 8-16 passengers along with a tour guide responsible for steering and controlling the brakes. These vehicles vary in design and operations and aim to offer a unique social experience where passengers can pedal to provide power and move the vehicle.
While some Multi-Person Bike tours allow the consumption of beverages and food items on board, others serve solely as a vehicle to travel between existing restaurants, bars, and sightseeing destinations.
Considerations:
The proposed businesses would be the first of their kind in the City of Riverside. A review of municipalities that allow for these types of businesses reveals that a permit or operating agreement is typically required. Modification of existing local laws as well as the addition of new regulations may be required to facilitate safe operations. Additionally, provisions regarding parking, maximum speed, liability, allowance or restriction of alcoholic beverage consumption, and allowable roadways for the vehicles may need to be considered as part of permitting requirements. The Public Works Department is seeking direction from the Mobility and Infrastructure Committee on whether to proceed with developing the necessary allowances for operation of Multi-Person Bike tours.
STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT:
The proposals presented in this report align with Strategic Priority 1 – Arts, Culture and Recreation along with Strategic Priority 3 – Economic Opportunity. It also supports Goal 1.1 – Strengthen Riverside’s portfolio of arts, culture, recreation, senior, and lifelong learning programs and amenities through expanded community partnerships, shared use opportunities, and fund development; Goal 3.1 – Facilitate partnerships and programs to develop, attract and retain innovative business sectors; and Goal 3.3 - Cultivate a business climate that welcomes innovation, entrepreneurship and investment.
Furthermore, the report and presentation align with each of the five Cross-Cutting Threads:
Community Trust – The purpose of this presentation is to initiate community engagement regarding the proposed startup Multi-Person Bike operations businesses within the City. Providing the start-up businesses with an opportunity to be considered by the Committee builds community trust.
Equity: This project is neutral towards this cross-cutting thread.
Fiscal Responsibility: This project is neutral towards this cross-cutting thread.
Innovation: These businesses are the first of their kind within the City and provide a different experience and opportunity for the public to enjoy the attractions of the City while simultaneously exercising and socializing within their group.
Sustainability & Resiliency: Implementation of Multi-Person Bike tours could bring additional visitors to the areas in which they operate and serve as a tool for economic prosperity.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report. An assessment of potential expenses and revenues will be prepared should the Committee direct staff to bring this item back to Committee alongside draft guidelines, RMC revisions and licenses.
Prepared by: Gilbert M. Hernandez, Public Works Director Certified as to
availability of funds: Edward Enriquez, Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer Approved by: Kris Martinez, Assistant City Manager
Approved as to form: Phaedra A. Norton, City Attorney
Attachment: Presentation
Proposed Multi-Person Bike Tour Operations ● Page 2