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Southern Pines council leans toward broader skate-streets policy, directs staff to refine definitions and safety language
Summary
Council favored a planning proposal to permit skateboarding on most town streets outside the local Historic District (Option 1) while banning skateboarding on sidewalks inside the historic core; members asked staff to add helmet language, clarify 'toy vehicle' definitions and plan signage/education.
Planning staff proposed two options to update the town's ordinance on skateboarding and similar activities. Option 1 allows skateboarding on streets outside the local Historic District (but not on sidewalks inside the historic core); Option 2 was more restrictive. Planner Mason Maddox recommended Option 1 to expand noncar transportation options.
Council members raised safety questions and the need for clearer definitions. Councilwoman Peterson asked about "toy vehicles" and whether very young children in motorized play cars would now be allowed on streets; Council members asked staff to consider helmet requirements. The chief of police, Nick Polidori, was consulted and did not object to the recommended approach.
By the end of the discussion councilmembers indicated a preference for Option 1 and directed staff to refine definitions (skateboard/roller skate/scooter/toy vehicle), add safety language (helmet guidance), and produce a signage and public-education plan to clarify where skating and similar activities are allowed.
Next steps: staff will return with ordinance language (definitions, age/helmet language as appropriate) and proposed signage/education measures for council review.
