Once your municipality has given you the OK for a Skatepark the next question that usually arises is where should the Skatepark go? A location solidifies the Skatepark and often aides fundraising efforts.
Please keep in mind even though you have been given the “OK” for a Skatepark doesn’t mean everyone in your community will be excited about the project. Often the location of the Skatepark draws much more attention than the project itself. Unfortunately, more often than not there is opposition towards a Skatepark, due to the lack of knowledge regarding Skateboarding in general. Fortunately with a very little effort, you can provide the necessary information and dispel these areas of concerns.
The location of the Skatepark can directly affect the success of the park, there are a few key factors that should be taken into consideration before moving forward. By addressing these issues before the site has been selected you can often circumvent some of the questions that may arise from the general public.
- Noise Impact
- When creating a poured-in-place concrete park, the noise that is heard is no more than any other recreational facility. You should be considerate of the neighborhoods nearby and the possible affects the Skatepark will have.
- Amenities
- Placing a Skatepark into an existing Park system is a great way to use the existing amenities such as parking, drinking fountains, lighting to your advantage. This allows for more funds to go into the skate-able square footage of your park.
- Accessibility
- Often Skaters do not have access to a vehicle. This means finding a location centrally located and near public transportation is key.
- The park should be in plain view and not tucked away in a corner. Not only does this provide better access for the Skaters as well as parents and spectators, it provides the community the opportunity to see, interact and understand the Skateboarding community.
No matter where you decided to place the Skatepark, the key to the success of any Skatepark is to get a qualified and experienced Skatepark Designer involved. Remember a Skatepark is a recreational facility that should be planned, designed and though out before construction begins. By incorporating your Skatepark into an existing park facility you can often avoid resistance, as well as minimize the cost.
For more information on site selection and or how you can get a Skatepark in your community please contact me at nicole@pillardesignstudios.com.
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