Friday March 29th, 2024 7:06AM

Skateboarding, still not allowed downtown

By Jerry Gunn Reporter
GAINESVILLE - Gainesville skateboarders at Tuesday evening's city council meeting got another reminder that their sport, at least for now, violates the law downtown, especially in the Mountains Center Parking Deck.

Councilman George Wangemann said he heard from a citizen who nearly got hit by a skateboarder in the parking deck.

"He said he was not aware that skateboarding was allowed in the parking deck and of course I wasn't either," Wangemann said.

Police Chief Brian Kelly had a ready answer. Skateboarding is not allowed in the parking deck, it's unsafe, and signs are posted prohibiting it.

"Of course, our skateboarders, if they happen to be in there, if they're coming down the hill with a strong speed, we're concerned they won't be able to stop in time," Chief Kelly said.

Kelly added at this time there is no designated area for skateboarding in Gainesville.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GAINESVILLE

The City of Gainesville is about to have another birthday, its 190th coming up in November, according to City Councilman Bob Hamrick.

"I certainly hope that we'll be able to celebrate in grand style," Hamrick said.

Northeast Georgia was still part of the Cherokee Indian Nation when Gainesville was founded in 1821. Originally known as 'Mule Camp Springs,' it was a frontier boom town that became a trading center for America's first gold rush in 1829 in Lumpkin and White Counties.

A CHANCE TO COMMENT

Gainesville Citizens have two more chances to have their say on the shape of the city at Comprehensive Plan Community workshops coming up next month and in September.

Councilman Wangemann said the August 11th meeting is set for the Fair Street Neighborhood Center for comment on downtown Midtown and in town neighborhoods.

"September 8th the focus is Browns Bridge Road, Atlanta Highway, and the Mall area," Wangemann said.

The September 8th meeting is set for Gainesville High School; both meetings start at 5:30 p.m. and are hosted by the Community Development Department.
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