News Reporter
Following the ban of motorized scooters on campus, CMU installed speed bumps in the University Center parking garage in an effort to address campus safety concerns.
“We’ve had some major issues that we’ve heard from faculty and students about skating down the parking garage,” ASG Vice President Ariel Diamond said. “That’s a huge safety risk. We know of people getting hit by cars and people rolling on windshields.”
While no serious injuries have been reported, ASG decided it was time for action. Both Diamond and ASG President Telbe Storbeck took their concerns straight to administration. President Tim Foster was immediately on board.
“I know it’s kind of a fun kill,” Diamond said. “At the same time, it’s the schools responsibility to make sure that they’re not held liable for people getting hit by cars in the parking garage.”
Diamond and Foster both mentioned skaters’ disregard for the “No Skateboarding” signs. Foster also noted that Parking Services staff tells skateboarders that its is not allowed on the structure.
“I don’t think the parking garage will be used as much, but I do think people will continue to skate on it,” sophomore Jesse Battles said. “I’ve already seen someone skate over the speed bumps.”
Skaters should be aware that further violations might prompt even more action. While Foster doesn’t believe it will be necessary, law enforcement could be contacted, and tickets can be given. Diamond pointed out that campus security has already experienced problems with enforcement because it’s difficult to actually catch a skateboarder in the act.
“You can also skate around them, which I think may just make it more challenging for skateboarders,” Battles said.
After spending $7,278.90, it’s hard to believe the safety measure has already been trumped, but Diamond assures that the speed bumps will be extended wall to wall at a later date.
With summer fast approaching, more skateboarders are apt to come out of their winter hibernation. Instead of furthering the problem on campus, Foster points to a variety of skate parks in the Grand Valley Area.
“If that [skating] is something students are extremely passionate about, maybe that’s something the city or school can address,” Diamond said.
When asked if CMU had ever considered constructing a skate park, Foster said there hasn’t been a ton of support for the idea, but student opinions will always be listened to.
“Common sense and courtesy usually wins out,” Foster said. “Sure, accidents happen, but by-in-large, I think everyone’s well served to slow down and make sure we are being safe.”
cferganc@mavs.coloradomesa.edu
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