HARRISBURG — In a major win for ATV/UTV enthusiasts across the commonwealth, a group of lawmakers announced portions of state highways could soon be opened to serve as connector roads between trailheads under a new PennDOT policy.

Reps. Clint Owlett, R-Wellsboro, Martin Causer, R-Turtlepoint, and Brian Smith, R-Punxsutawney, have been vocal advocates for expanding ATV riding opportunities both for riders’ enjoyment and for the opportunities it can create for regional economies in the Commonwealth.

“This is fantastic news for ATV and UTV enthusiasts, as well as our communities,” Owlett said. “We’ve seen great things happen here in the Northern Tier since the ATV Regional Trail Connector pilot program launched in 2021, and this change could increase riding opportunities exponentially.”

At a meeting with PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll, the lawmakers learned the agency has established a new policy that will help facilitate the opening of certain sections of state highways to serve as connector roads between trailheads. Under the policy, municipal officials can identify a specific section or roadway to serve as a connector and request a PennDOT review of their proposal. If PennDOT agrees, the municipality or municipalities in which the section of state highway is located must enact a resolution affirming the use of the road as a connector.

A 2020 law created a pilot program in the Northern Tier that required the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) to evaluate certain forest districts for roads and trails to serve as potential regional connectors and to provide local access or serve as a trail complex for ATV use. A report issued by the agency early last year estimated the economic impact of the program at $8.2 million in 2022 and $11.7 million in 2023 for Potter and Tioga counties.

“The pilot program really showed us what a difference connectors can make, opening up so many more opportunities for local riders and helping to make our region a destination for ATV enthusiasts,” Causer said. “This policy change will open up even more opportunities.”

Smith agreed, noting the PennDOT policy reflects, in part, legislation he has proposed for the last two sessions that sought to empower counties to designate state roads to serve as connectors for ATVs, as well as UTVs and snowmobiles.

“I have been working to make our roads more accessible to trail riders since the day I took office,” Smith said. “Last summer, I held an ATV/ UTV Legislative Ride for fellow lawmakers and other state officials that I believe helped get us to this moment. Folks who aren’t familiar with these machines likely underestimate how capable and safe they can be. I think this event really helped open some eyes as to how a little more access can go a long way in boosting the viability and enjoyment of the incredible trail networks we have here in Pennsylvania.”