Select Board tightens event permit language: two‑abreast rule, traffic control and sheriff presence suggested

The select board reviewed safety and permit language for road races and similar events. Chair read proposed language and statutory guidance about bicycle formations, quoting the statute directly: “Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway may not ride more than 2 abreast... except as otherwise permitted by the Commissioner of Public Safety in connection with a public sporting event.”

Board members agreed to require a traffic control plan, alter the course so runners and riders are not traveling on both sides of a road at the same time, and to explore requiring the sheriff’s department to address traffic incidents rather than relying exclusively on fire department personnel. Julie Ireland said she would seek clarification from the Commissioner of Public Safety and Vermont State Police about waivers and whether the town should be listed as a certificate holder on insurance documents before issuing final approval for races.