By CHRIS RICE
City Times
It takes the right set of eyes to see it, but look closely enough and the evidence is there. Someone is breaking the law on campus. Code 84.12 (e) to be exact.
Despite the efforts of San Diego Community College District to prevent it by the installation of skate stoppers on curbs and handrails, there is still plenty of proof that this activity is being pursued here at City College. From the multiple shades of paint on certain handrails to a strategically waxed curb, somebody is using campus for more than just an education.
An equal mix of skateboards and bmx’ers are using popular spots such as the campus theater for their extra-curricular activities. However, Sergeant Gemma Styles of the campus police does “not characterize it (skateboarding) being a huge problem” here at City. Verbal warnings are given on the first instance and usually average one or two a day on weekends. Citations are normally only issued to repeat offenders.
Due to the longer commutes and flatter terrain, Sergeant Styles believes Mesa is experiencing more problems than City College when it comes to heavy bicycle and skateboard traffic. The hills and stairs around City combined with a more compact campus, reduces the necessity of using bikes and boards to go from class to class.
The introduction of skate stoppers has significantly reduced the number of future X-Games contenders on campus. All things considered, with the number of skate parks in the area and the ever present possibility of legal action, City College is no longer the skateboarding hotspot it was in the past.
