The residents of Bowie and surrounding cities support the use of BMX bikes in the City of Bowie, MD skatepark. This petition is not a request for a new, separate skatepark designed specifically for BMX bikes we only ask for equal treatment for BMX riders in the existing publicly maintained skatepark.

It is a common misconception that BMX bicycles in skateparks create a dangerous environment. BMX bicycles are equipped with brakes and are highly maneuverable, making them at least as safe as the skateboards and/or inline skates already permitted to use the skatepark. 

One of the countless reasons Park Police have given to not allowing bicycles into the skatepark has been added wear and tear from BMX. In recent years pegs, handlebars, and pedals have been manufactured in plastic resulting in less wear and tear than metal trucks and plates from skateboards and rollerblades/skates.

Many cities in the state of Maryland and around the country already recognize this by permitting BMX bicycles into publicly funded skateparks, where they coexist with other riders. Countless private skateparks already demonstrate that any and all skatepark designs are compatible with BMX bicycles and we request that you please sign this petition to help BMX riders gain fair use of our local facilities.