By Terrance Thornton | Independent Newsmedia
The steep hills, the smooth asphalt and the windy roads of the Town of Paradise Valley are ideal conditions for local downhill longboarders to carve out quick lines and practice a staple of riding: The power slide.
As the popularity of downhill boarding grows, so does the frequency of Paradise Valley streets being used as a training ground of sorts — and some homeowners are expressing concerns of safety at Town Hall.
The act itself can, at times, put riders atop a six-foot, six- to eight-ply concave wood deck bolted to heavy-duty trucks, comparable to the axles of an automobile, with 60-millimeter, polyurethane skateboard wheels fastened as it travels up to speeds hovering around 40 mph.
While local riders contend spotters are used at every corner — downhill riders usually ride together in groups of four or more — Paradise Valley residents are concerned a potential tragedy awaits around every corner.
Paradise Valley Town Council discussed the possibility of creating an ordinance regulating the perceived public nuisance and safety concern at its April 18 work session.
