PORTLAND -- Some new skate-friendly signs are popping up in the West Hills - an area that's been the scene of some conflict between skaters and residents.
The point of the new signs is to get skateboarders' attention with friendly reminders to wear a helmet and to stop at stop signs.
The “Skate Friendly PDX” signs are now posted near Southwest Knights and Fairview and at the bottom of Madison trail.
The Portland City Council considered a skateboarding ban on 10 popular streets in that neighborhood in June. The council didn’t make a ruling and will address the issue in September.
For now, skateboarding advocates, Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Police Bureau and neighbors are working together to keep the streets safe for skaters.
Neighbor Barbara Freeman says she has seen her share of close calls involving skateboarders and cars.
“I hope something will improve the situation because the neighbors had been worried about the situation and don't want anyone to get hurt,” Freeman said.
A new website called skatefriendlypdx.com has also launched as part of educating skaters on safety.
Two more signs will be posted at the Goose Hollow and Oregon Zoo Max stops.
