Potential bylaw change could pave path to drinking on ‘pedal pub’ – Winnipeg

If you’ve strolled through downtown Winnipeg in the past few summers, you may have spotted unique yellow and blue ‘quadcycles’ cruising the streets. Pedal Pub Winnipeg, now in its third summer of operation, offers leisurely tours for groups of 16 participants through the Downtown and Exchange district, with stops at various bars and breweries.

Miguel Gauthier, one of the co-owners of Pedal Pub Winnipeg, mentions that the business has created quite a buzz.

“Those who use Pedal Pub love gathering with friends in this unique way,” explained Gauthier. “They get to discover new bars and establishments, spend time in the downtown core, which might not be their usual hangout spot.”

With over 500 trips completed in the past two summers, there are currently no Municipal or Provincial regulations in place to support quadcycles’ operation on Winnipeg roads.

The Winnipeg Public Works Committee is taking steps to address this issue by adopting a recommendation to adjust city bylaws to allow for the safe operation of quadcycles in the city.

Implementing a legal framework would ensure smoother operation for Pedal Pub Winnipeg and potentially allow them to serve alcohol between destinations. Gauthier and his partners welcome the clarity that rules and regulations would bring.

“For the first couple of years, we didn’t have a proper license to operate,” Gauthier said. “So we’re eager to have regulations in place to guide us and legitimize the business with the province and the city.”

The collaboration between Pedal Pub and various levels of government is well-received by businesses that partner with them. Brock Coutts, co-owner of Patent 5 distillery, notes that working with Pedal Pub has brought additional foot traffic to the exchange, benefiting his establishment and others.

“We’ve served between 350 and 370 guests, in addition to our regular summer crowd,” said Coutts. “Knowing when they’re coming allows us to accommodate them, which is fantastic for us.”

The proposed bylaw change is expected to go through City Council in the coming weeks, offering businesses and the community a clear path to pedal into the sunset.

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