Tony Visca hopes to be able to begin his Pedal Pub tours through Niagara-on-the Lake soon, but was looking for council to endorse the two popular routes used last year.
The group and the vehicle got lots of attention as it travelled the streets of NOTL last year, with the driver avoiding Niagara Stone Road whenever possible and keeping to the side.
But it received some negative attention from the Region, with concern about it travelling even a short distance on the regional Niagara Stone Road, Visca told NOTL councillors Monday night. The business needs a licence from the Region to operate.
It also drew some complaints from residents over noise.
Visca says his pub pilots play music at lower volumes in residential neighbourhoods, and turn it up when they move away from homes.
The Pedal Pub has two popular tours, but one’s a short stretch along Niagara Stone Road, and Visca says he’s not sure how that can be avoided.
He says his pilots stay to the side of the road, and obey all the same rules as motorized vehicles.
The bikes can accommodate up to 15 people, 10 of whom pedal, plus the driver, who steers and operates the brakes.
Five more people can just sit and enjoy the tour, or take turns pedalling.
Visca says there will be fewer people on the rides this summer, to allow for physical distancing.
He said by partnering with wineries and restaurants, the tours bring revenue to the town and help local businesses.
Lord Mayor Betty Disero, who lives close enough to the route to hear “We are the Champions, every day, about eight times a day,” when the tours are running, said she would like to prohibit the noisy tours from starting before noon on Sundays.
Council agreed to ask staff for a brief information report, to deal with noise issues and other complaints, and to report back as soon as possible.
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