Politics & Government

Mayor Driscoll Aiming to Legalize Skateboarding in Salem

Mayor Kim Driscoll is hoping to pass two ordinances aimed at making Salem a friendlier city for skateboarders.

If Mayor Kim Driscoll gets her way, Salem will soon be a much more skater-friendly city.

Driscoll announced Wednesday that she will present two new ordinances at tonight's City Council meeting pertaining to skateboarding - which is currently prohibited on all streets and public ways.

"As an ever-increasing number of people of all ages utilize skateboards and, in particular, longboards for both recreation and regular travel within our city, I believe it is appropriate that we modify our ordinances to reflect this change," she wrote.

The proposed ordinances would repeal the existing blanket prohibition and instead permit skateboarding on all roads except the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall and Highland Avenue. Use on a sidewalk would be prohibited and all riders would be required to follow all traffic rules and regulations, similar to bicyclists, according to a release. 

The proposed ordinance would also require that riders under the age of 16 wear an appropriate helmet. Those who skate dangerously or out into traffic would still be subject to a fine under the proposed ordinances.

Earlier this year, Mike Rappa and his brother, Brian tried to start a conversation about longboarding in Salem after they were issued tickets for riding along the side of the road and had their boards confiscated by police.

The proposed ordinances were crafted with the input and advice from the Salem Police Department and the City Solicitor.  


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