Lafayette City-Parish Councilman Kenneth Boudreaux says he’s concerned about children playing basketball in neighborhood streets. On Tuesday, Boudreaux intends to bring the issue before the council.

Most people get it right. They install their portable basketball hoops on their property. Boudreaux takes issue when the basketball hoop is mobile and brought into a busy street.  It’s hard for a person who drives to disagree.  “I’m concerned about busy roadways. If I’m going to be able to stop in time enough and when you see a ball in the street you know a kid is probably going to follow,” says resident Shirlyn Randal.

Councilman Boudreaux says he realizes for some the nearest recreational center might be too far of an option. However, Boudreaux adds that playing hoops in the streets is a more dangerous option. “I want to look into having a consistent enforcement measure. Having some on the ground activity with people informed of these areas where kids are participating and inform them it’s inappropriate to do so and also look at some alternatives,” states Boudreaux.

Lafayette Police realize giving the streets back for children to enjoy is better than seeing them get into mischievous activity. LPD Corporal Paul Mouton outlines the rules and regulations of playing hoops to close to the road.  “If it’s a closed off street or cul-de-sac, remember you can’t put a basketball goal in the street or in the city right-of-way which is right on the curb which gives the kids access to playing in the street itself,” notes Mouton.