EAST SMETHPORT — The Keating Township supervisors fielded requests Wednesday from a newly-organized off-highway trail riding group.

John Anderson, who along with Kraig Okerlund represented the organization, asked the supervisors to consider designating “some or all township roads, or on a case-by-case basis” as dual purpose roads, which he said could benefit local businesses.

Supervisor David McClain, who said the township does not favor opening all roads to dual purposes, asked the representatives if they had a township map available for the supervisors to use when considering the request.

Anderson replied there was no map yet, but one could be prepared if the supervisors allow road access to the various vehicles, such as four-wheelers, ATVs and side-by-sides.

Supervisor Chairman Doug Covert said that 4-wheelers are not equipped for highway use. Stating his personal opinion, Covert added, “I don’t see the 4-wheeler drivers respecting speed and noise limits and the community, so how do you enforce correct behavior? I see more damage than good. For me, it’s an uphill battle.”

Nevertheless, Covert said, “I’m open to listening.”

Anderson responded by saying such concerns as Covert mentioned, “will be dealt with.”

In other matters, Covert said the recently-completed Gifford Hollow Bridge “turned out great” and thanked township secretary-treasurer Melissa Jo Smith and the municipal road crew for their work on the project.

The road has a ten-ton limit, while the bridge’s rating is unlimited.

Citing the benefits of the bridge project, Covert said, “It provides safer visibility, increased weight capacity and the road is realigned for safer travel.”

Eighty percent of this project’s cost came from state funding, leaving the township’s share at $47,254.15.

According to Covert, work on the bridge on Pierce Brook Road could begin in August.