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Starting in the new year, people can be ticketed for passing items between motorists and pedestrians in Wheeling.
The recently passed pedestrian and vehicle safety ordinance goes into effect on Jan. 1, and the Wheeling Police Department recently announced it will begin enforcing that ordinance on that day.
The ordinance, passed 6-1 at the Nov. 7 city council meeting, prohibits exchanging items from motorists to pedestrians on public roadways within city limits. The exchange is considered a public safety hazard and brings on the concern for crashes that could result in serious injury to either party.
Councilwoman Connie Cain cast the lone dissenting vote against the ordinance, and several Wheeling residents spoke out against it as well on Nov. 7, saying it was another step toward infringing on the rights of less fortunate people in the community.
The exchange of any item is prohibited at intersections, in medians, on shoulders, and in roadways. Pedestrians and non-motorists are also prohibited from standing or sitting in these areas unless they are lawfully crossing the street.
If violated, pedestrians and motorists could be subject to a citation. A first-time offense will result in a verbal warning; a second offense will result in a written warning; a third offense or more will result in a citation. The penalty can be up to and not more than $100 or community service.
A copy of the Pedestrian and Vehicle Safety Ordinance (No. 16134) can be viewed online at wheelingwv.gov/police.