Friday, October 23, 2009
Blacksburg officials: Sidewalks off limits to skateboarding, bicycling
Some downtown merchants have expressed concern about bike riding on sidewalks.
The reminder was prompted by concerns expressed by some downtown merchants about bike riding on sidewalks, said Heather Browning, the town's community relations manager.
A news release from the town was sent Wednesday afternoon that referenced the rules that prohibit the skating and the use of bicycles on sidewalks in the downtown.
"It's not rampant," said Sgt. Nathan O'Dell of the Blacksburg Police Department. "We do see it on occasion."
O'Dell said town officials also want to clarify the differences between the Virginia Tech campus and Blacksburg's downtown district when it comes to the use of skateboards, inline skates and bicycles on sidewalks and streets.
At Virginia Tech, bicycles are permitted on all roadways, as well as concrete and asphalt pathways, grass and sidewalks, with the exception of times when there is heavy pedestrian traffic on sidewalks and paths, according to university policy.
During times when sidewalks and paths are heavily used by people, such as during class change, bicyclists should dismount completely and walk. Also, bicyclists are encouraged to dismount at crosswalks, the policy states.
Also at Tech, skateboards, inline skates and roller skates are permitted on all concrete and asphalt pathways and sidewalks, but not roadways.
As with bikes, when there are many people on sidewalks and paths -- such as class change -- skateboarders should walk.
The policy also states that skateboarders will keep all wheels on the ground at all times. Use of skateboards and inline skates for tricks is prohibited, and skateboarders and skaters should slow to speeds matching pedestrians when using crosswalks.
In the town, cyclists can ride on the downtown streets but must follow the rules of the road that apply to motorists. Also, when possible, cyclists are encouraged to use the greenway trails throughout the town, the town new release states.
Town officials also encourage skateboarders to use the town's Skate Park at 615 Patrick Henry Drive, across from Blacksburg High School.
Sue Drzal, administrative director for Downtown Merchants of Blacksburg, could not be reached for comment.
