This story reminds me of when DPW refused to change over to bike friendly storm grates "because of the negative impact on the flow of water." (or some such language.) Just because DPW can make up a reason does not mean there is any validity to it all.
CBS coverage: https://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2011/10/14/mountain-bikers-fight-dpw-to-stay-on-loch-raven-reservoir-trails/