Cyclists in Victoria Park. (CBC)

Charlottetown city officials say complaints about the misuse of a cycling lane in Victoria Park are on the rise.

An inside traffic lane has been converted to a bike lane for the past two summers.

But not everyone is respecting the rules of the road and officials say that increases the risk of accidents.

“If there is a use of the cycling lane by either motorists or pedestrians, that reduces the safety for the cyclists and certainly for the pedestrians,” said Sue Hendricken, manager of the Parks and Recreation department.

“So we don't want to create a false sense of security by telling people they can cycle safely around the park and then something happens.”

Hendricken said offenders include joggers, people pushing strollers and cars trying to avoid getting stuck behind slower vehicles.

No accidents have occurred so far, Hendricken said, but some cyclists have reportedly had close calls with pedestrians.

Hendricken said the city is working on plans to create a permanent median so that cars will not be able to enter the bike lane. That is expected to be built next year.

The bike lane has been a temporary measure in recent years but was entered into city bylaws as a permanent summer fixture this year.