June 16, 2009
Starting this week, those heading to Richmond’s scenic Canal Walk may notice something new along the picturesque path: ‘No Running’ signs.
The warnings have been put up by Richmond’s Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities Department to combat the growing epidemic of physical activity along the 10-year-old city walkway. Those caught running or moving at speeds greater than 3.5 miles per hour along the 1.25-mile pathway may be fined up to $200 per offense, the department said.
“Look, this isn’t the Canal Run, it’s the Canal Walk,” said John R. Pope Jr., director of parks and recreation department. “There are gyms and treadmills for that sort of thing. We’re simply trying to preserve our leisurely Southern pace along the James River, so let’s all slow it down a bit and take it easy out there.”
Accepted along the Canal Walk, he said, is any form of strolling, meandering and prancing, including at least four different forms of strides. Any type of run, jog, “and especially trot” is strictly prohibited, he said.
Many city residents said they were not pleased with the new ordinance. Rebecca Mundelson, a Virginia Commonwealth University student and avid runner, said she has long enjoyed the scenic beauty and natural wildlife that the city’s historic waterway offers.
“I thought they put the Canal Walk there for folks like me, who want to get out and exercise and enjoy the outdoors,” the 20-year-old said. “But I guess this isn’t all that bad, because I can just stay in and get in more TV and snacks during the evenings.”
For the most part, runners and joggers have largely ignored the notices, and aren’t dismayed by Pope’s hiding behind the bushes and shouting “No running!” as they pass.
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How does this apply to those Segway tours we see zooming around every so often?
meh. when they downgrade it to Canal Sit, let me know.
The Richmond Riverfront Development Corporation is in charge of the Canal Walk, not the City.
Good catch. We actually do appreciate being called out when the actual facts are wrong.
Now Scott, go and do something environmentalish.
“The Richmond Riverfront Development Corporation is in charge of the Canal Walk, not the City.”
A rose by any other name would still have…that smell.
I guess technically its part of Venture Richmond now.
http://www.venturerichmond.com/whoweare/
It’s not called the Canal Walk.
… for nothing.
(Damn, I hate stepping on my own lines.)
Richmond Riverfront Development Corporation has not existed as a legal entity since being absorbed by Venture Richmond. While Venture Richmond maintains the lease of Brown’s Island, the city is, in fact, in charge of all ordinances and enforcement of said ordinances along the Canal Walk.
“Venture Richmond maintains the lease of Brown’s Island”
DOes this include the Cordish property?
The article was funny,the comments pathetic.