Waterloo – In response to residents’ concerns about skateboarding in the Waterloo Public Square, city council has voted in favour of a pilot action plan to make the gathering place accessible to everyone.

This plan includes designating a small area of the square “skateboard friendly,” and installing temporary fixtures there that could be used by a small number of skaters at a time. This would keep the skateboarders in a defined space and, at the same time, reduce the wear on the rest of the square.

As well, a temporary skateboard mentor program would be implemented during peak times to monitor the activity in the square, encourage safe use, ensure users are adhering to the facility’s guidelines and engage participants. It also includes posting appropriate signage, communicating with the broader community and educating the public about skateboarding.

"Council has heard from a number of concerned residents. In reviewing those concerns, I believe the course of action we have chosen tonight will help ensure that the Waterloo Public Square evolves into a safe gathering place for residents of and visitors to Waterloo,” said Mayor Brenda Halloran. “I look forward to hearing about the impact these actions can have.”

The action plan will be implemented on a pilot basis. Staff will monitor activity and will report back to Council on July 13.

As well, the city previously has allocated some funding to build a skateboard park in Waterloo. Skateboarding is an acknowledged legitimate sport that continues to grow quickly, and a long term component of the action plan encourages getting local skateboarders on board to help with the design and development of this facility, which is expected to be complete in 2010.