Mayor Johnson Bans Fun in City Parks

In a knee-jerk reaction to juveniles skateboarding in the new Civic Center Parking Structure, Alameda City Council has seen fit to prohibit bicycle riding in all city parks, recreation areas, structures and public property. To defend the new ordinance, Mayor Johnson said “In a park though, we don’t want them riding all the way through to the bike rack. We want them walking their bike through the park.” In effect, the Mayor has banned fun in city parks.

The city staff report for the June 17, 2008 City Council meeting notes that “As of March 30, 2008, the Police Departments has responded to 123 calls for service involving juveniles in the Civic Center Parking Structure. Some of the calls are in response to juveniles skateboarding in the structure.” Back in February, Inside Alameda reported on the use of the parking garage as a skateboard park.