Skate board safety in Ocean Springs

A skateboard accident in downtown Ocean Springs raises concern for city leaders and local businesses.
A week ago, a young man on a skateboard fell at the intersection of Government Street and Bellande Avenue. The teen was left unconscious after he hit his head on the pavement. The incident heightened the awareness of what some downtown business owners say is a growing problem.
Residents in the area tell News 25 at times they’ve spotted skateboarders crouching down behind moving vehicles and grabbing on to the bumper for a tow. Owner of Paddles Up Amanda Schmidt said, “Government Street is pretty busy and I definitely see more skateboarders when there is more heavy traffic in the afternoon. I do think a skate park would be something that they can meet at. It would build community and it would just give them some place to go that they feel like it was theirs.”
There is no state statute that prohibits skateboarders on public streets or sidewalks. Officers can cite skateboarders if they are found to be obstructing traffic.