Skateboard Park
Could Be Saved

We were surprised to read of the Randolph Recreation Committee’s belief that removing the skate park is in the town’s best interest. We’re surprised because it was created only a few short years ago, and understand that it cost the town over $20,000. Why did we invest so much only to let it deteriorate so soon and become a liability? Before we get rid of our skateboard park completely, let’s consider what Selectman Larry Townsend has suggested, and ask for other input. If we were unable to do adequate research at the beginning of the skate park project, perhaps we can at least do it now and save our investment.

Despite the poor skating conditions at the park, our skateboarders don’t want to see the park disappear. My son Lance, an avid skateboarder, has suggested that we move the park and find a permanent space that isn’t a parking lot. He says that skateboarders would use the park more if the ground weren’t so rough and gravely from cars driving on it, and if it were set up more like a real street environment.

If the park were simulated to be like a real street, while keeping the present structures, the skateboarders would want to stay in the park (more often at least) and off the actual street. If we approached the skateboarders and asked them for their ideas, and asked if they would pitch in and help raise money for their ideas, they’d probably be excited with the prospect and would also be invested in preserving the equipment once it was put together.

These skateboarders are extremely creative and talented individuals. If we ignore them and destroy the park completely, we will be sending them the message that the town is against them. If we involve them and ask them to help, we are fostering feelings of acceptance and self-worth.

Another idea that Lance has echoes an idea from our past: to pour concrete into the town’s ice skating rink and put a simple roof over the rink. This would give us an ice skating rink that could be maintained much easier in the winter, and a skateboard park, where cars do not drive, in the summer … two birds with one stone.

Instead of throwing away our investment and ignoring the potential of our children, let’s work together, save our equipment, and find a practical solution that works for everyone.

Karen Butler

Lance Butler

Randolph

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