In-line skates groovy for American River Parkway

Proposed ARP rules The Skating task force is proposing rules for the American River Parkway to promote tail courtesy. Single-file travel in right lane, except when passing. Call out, "passing on your left" in a courteous manner when passing. Skate "skinny," arms in, narrow strides, when being passed Wear the gear, including helmets and protective pads and lights at night. No headphones. The signs may also remind trail users that skating is classified as a "hazardous recreational activity." --Eric Marks

Despite safety concerns, the City of Sacramento will allow in-line roller skates usage on the American River Parkway for a one-year trial period. During this trial period in-line skates will also be allowed on the Guy West Bridge.

The bike trail, which winds from the Folsom Dam to "I" Street at the foot of Old Sacramento, is a popular source for alternate transportation for the CSUS population, said Joe Chavez, director of the Associated Students Inc. bike compound near the foot of the Guy West bridge.

"A very small percentage of bicyclists wear helmets and that's a big concern because bikes are bigger and are not as agile as a rollerblader," said Chavez, "It is also the law to wear one (when in-line skating.)"

New signs at all access points are proposed to promote trail courtesy, informing users that skating is a hazardous recreational activity and listing the rules for all users.

Laura Home, an employee at Peak Adventures, the ASI supported store that sells and repairs bikes, doesn't think there will be too much of a problem.

There are more bicyclists on campus because of the confusion of the new perimeter road," said Home. "However, I don't see a problem on the trails as long as people obey the rules and they stay on their respective side of the lane."