Redmond may ban skateboards, scooters at asphalt pump track

City officials say the new rule is not related to COVID-19

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- On Tuesday, the city of Redmond will consider prohibiting skateboards and other roller devices like scooters at the Homestead Pump Track.

Despite signs put up by the city warning people the area is closed due to COVID-19, the city says the track remains a popular spot for bikers. 

According to the city, Homestead Pump Track is the very first asphalt pump track in the state and the only one in Central Oregon. The city says it cost about $300,000 to complete.

Redmond City Manager Keith Witcosky said Monday considering the prohibition of skateboards and roller devices at the track is not related to COVID-19. 

Annie McVay, the city’s parks, cemetery, and facilities manager, said adding the rule at the track is a way to balance the guidelines already set at the Redmond skate park.

“Bikes are not allowed in our skate park, and so we have it in our city code,” McVay said. “When we built the bike park, we didn’t go back and formally set parameters, so sometimes the police need more information to enforce rules there.”

Although parks are temporarily closed, the city allows walking, running, biking, or using other mobility devices like wheelchairs, as long as people stay at least six feet apart from each other.

As of Monday, the Redmond Activity Center, Cascade Swim Center, playgrounds and sports fields remain closed to the public.