NEW POLICY CURTAILS USE OF SKATEBOARDS AND INLINE SKATES ON CAMPUS

The new year brings with it a new university policy that prohibits the use of skateboards, inline skates (commonly referred to as rollerblades), roller skates and other "recreational devices" in an unsafe manner on campus.

The policy, now in effect, states that recreational activities should never infringe on the rights or safety of others nor cause damage to buildings and grounds. As part of the policy, the use of skateboards, inline skates, roller skates and other recreational devices are prohibited in university buildings and residence halls as well as on hand railings, benches, fountains, stairs, statuary and other landscape improvements or barriers on the campus.

"We are implementing this policy because of the injuries," said Cliff Rice, director of public safety. "Our main concern is safety. The truth is, some people have been hurt, including a woman who was knocked down by a skateboarder in the hallway of a building." He added that university property has also been damaged by the use of skates and skateboards.

The use of such devices at excessive speeds or in an unsafe manner is also a violation of the new policy. Using them in places and at times that adversely impact university programming, such as near academic classes or campus events,
is prohibited as well.

Old Dominion students caught violating the policy will be issued a disciplinary summons to appear before the Office of Student Services. Incidents of violations by others will be handled by campus police.

The new policy will be included in the Standards of Student Conduct and the Faculty and Classified Employee Guidebook.