Langley, WA To Allow Golf Carts On Public Roads

Brian Kelly, Editor of the South Whidbey Record, reported on January 29, 2012 that the Langley City Council has given its unanimous approval for the creation of a “golf cart zone”, which would allow electric golf carts on some city streets.  The measure would not apply to gasoline-powered golf carts, and golf cart owners would be required to make some modifications to their vehicles in order to drive them on Langley’s roads.

Langley Mayor Larry Kwarsick noted that Washington State Law allows golf carts on city streets with a speed limit of 25 mph or less, but his city will require additional safety equipment.  The law would require golf carts to have lights, turn signals, a safety flag on a 5-foot pole, and a city license costing $30 annually.  The vehicles would not be allowed in bike lanes or on sidewalks, but be restricted to the same areas which allow regular

vehicles now, and be subject to the same rules of the road.  Drivers would also have to have a valid driver’s license.

Councilwoman Rene Neff noted that Langley business owners have been pushing for some kind of legislation that would allow electric golf carts to shuttle passengers between cruise ships at the marina and downtown hotels and entertainment venues.

While safety is a concern, Councilman Jim Sundberg feels that the golf carts are still safer than many other non-gas powered modes of transportation (such as bicycles) for the city’s older population.  Signs have been posted, warning motorists to be aware that they are sharing the roads with the slower-moving golf carts, and the carts were expected to start using the city’s streets in February.

For more information, read the entire article at http://www.southwhidbeyrecord.com/news/138259944.html.