Ortonville- Bikers, start pedaling.
A new rule that banned bicycles from the Village Skate Park, which opened for the 2013 season last month, as been changed.
Village Manager John Lyons said after discussion with the insurance carrier regarding liability on BMX bikes in the park, located at the corner of Ball and Cedar streets in the village, they could be used. The change from the 2012 season will be bike-only days on Wednesday and Fridays. Leaving Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays for scooters, skateboards and rollerblades only allowed in the park.
‘We are going forward with different days for bikers and skaters to help avoid conflicts on the ramps,? said Lyons. ‘The park is a great place for the local youth to be during the summer months and we hope to accommodate a variety of interests.?
The skate park officially opened Tuesday, April 30, with Monitor Helen Edgerton returning to oversee the park and ensure rules are followed with no problems.
During the school year, the park is open from 3:30 -7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 1 p.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday. During the summer, the park is also closed Sunday and Monday, but open 1 p.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
Skaters must register and can obtain a season pass from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the village office, 476 Mill St. The annual fee is $20 per skater, with a $10 fee for each additional skater in the same family and the fees are capped at a total of $40 for a family of three or more. Day passes can be obtained for $2.Registration forms can also be found at www.ortonvillevillage.com and printed out before bringing them to the village office.
A condensed previous participant registration form is available for under 18-years-old participants registered during the 2012 season for quicker registration.
Helmets are mandatory and if the skate park monitor is not present, the park is closed. To gain access to the park, registration is necessary, as well as the pass.
‘Last year, the park worked really well with neighbors and there were no complaints,? said Lyons. ‘We are pretty happy with it.?