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Upper St. Clair addresses dirt bikes
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Upper St. Clair commissioners tonight got an earful from two angry homeowners on Orr Road, who said local dirt bike enthusiasts are making their lives "intolerable."
"I just want to be able to sit on my deck and enjoy some peace and quiet," said resident Diane Chicurda, who said watching television indoors is also impossible due to the noise from dirt bikes on nearby Trotwood Drive.
Resident Paul Kruper said he has confronted the parents of the children who are riding dirt bikes through their neighborhood, and has summoned the police, to no avail. Though local teens stopped riding the bikes on the road, he said they continue riding through their family's yard, which is less than one acre.
Though the township has a noise ordinance, the sound of the dirt bikes isn't louder than a lawn mower or chain saw, so police have told residents "their hands are tied," according to Ms. Chicurda.
"I would just urge you to consider something to protect residents," said Ms. Chicurda, who joined Mr. Kruper in asking commissioners to pass a more specific ordinance banning dirt bikes and all-terrain vehicles in residential areas.
Ms. Chicurda said there are no residential lots in the township that are large enough to accommodate dirt bike riders without disturbing nearby residents.
"It drives us nuts," said Mr. Kruper, who said his dogs are afraid of the noise. "That's not why I moved to Upper St. Clair."
Commissioner Russell Del Re said township staff members would take up the issue and determine whether an ordinance tweaking is in order.
"Your comments will not go on deaf ears," he said.
First Published June 4, 2012 10:27 pm
