Wake Forest ordinance bans skateboards, skates from downtown

The Wake Forest Town Council on Tuesday approved an ordinance banning skateboards, roller skates and almost anything with wheels from sidewalks and roadways in the downtown district.

Skateboarders at the Delicious Skateboard Shop said they were disappointed but not surprised by the decision.

"I knew that they had just redone a bunch of stuff in downtown Wake Forest, like sidewalks and stuff like that, and had been building things," said Grayson Nance. "I knew they'd probably do something, at least be a little tighter about it."

The ordinance, which takes effect immediately, also bans tricycles, scooters, in-line skates and anything that moves by "human power."

There are exceptions. Bicycles, wheelchairs, wagons and rickshaws are allowed in the area.

Town leaders say the new rules are about safety, but they will also prevent property damage to downtown businesses.

But skaters say they'll miss street skating.

"Street skating is awesome. You get to be creative," said Kyle Goetchius. "You get to find objects and obstacles that normally you won't find in a park."

"It's kind of sad," added Joseph Ovalle. "That's pretty much where I learned all my tricks, you know, but I don't want to get in trouble, so I probably won't do it."