The Kamloops Skate Park at McArthur Park is a popular destination of city skateboarders.
Image Credit: SOURCE/Google Maps
May 24, 2013 - 3:20 PM
Concerns over skateboarding and long boarding in a Sahali neighbourhood means the city will be drawing the line between two bylaws – one which allows skateboarding in the city and another that defines nuisance behaviour and noise.
A letter complaining of boarders in the area of Tolima Court off of Monarch Drive outlines many evenings of loud and rude behaviour. Police have been called in after several disturbances but Lorri and Kelvin Bradley are concerned the bylaw allowing skateboarding on city streets ties the hands of local RCMP officers.
The Bradleys say they are concerned about the disturbance and also the potential accidents these boarders could get into with vehicles in the area. Kids cannot play outside and the boarding activity gets dogs barking constantly as well, they say.
The bylaw, which allows in-line skates, skateboards and scooters on certain city streets, was put in place to help define where it is safe to operate this environmentally friendly type of transportation. About 16 steep grade streets and sidewalks are prohibited, as are commercial areas like the downtown and Tranquille Market areas and arterial roads. Several skateboard parks with ramps, rails and jumps are also set up around the city for skaters, boarders and bikers to use.
As long as vehicular and pedestrian traffic is not impeded or obstructed in residential areas and users come to complete stops at intersections and yield to traffic, it is allowed – other than the designated prohibited areas. Those not following the bylaw could have their in-line skates, skateboards or scooters impounded and could also face fines.
Boarders and skaters also have to be aware of noise bylaws – if they cause a disturbance or impact the quiet, peace, rest and enjoyment of residents they can be asked to leave and fined for their activity as well. They must also be aware of private property – such as condo stratas – where they could be trespassing.
Bylaw staff and RCMP will be attempting to monitor longboard activity in the upcoming months and patrols of the Sahali area will be conducted over the next several weeks to ensure bylaws are being complied with.
To contact a reporter for this story, email jstahn@infotelnews.ca or call (250) 819-3723.
News from © iNFOnews, 2013