Interim Skateboarding Area Created in Sturgeon Bay!

Through the cooperation of the Sturgeon Bay Police, Sturgeon Bay Schools, the YMCA and the Sturgeon Bay Skatepark Initiative (SBSI), skateboarders have been given permission to skateboard at the Sunset School playground, 827 N 8th Ave, for the next two months.

According to Chief of Police, Arleigh Porter, the decision acts as a temporary fix until a permanent skatepark is built.  “We applaud the ongoing efforts of the Sturgeon Bay Skatepark Initiative to build a skatepark in Sturgeon Bay.  It will be a real plus for our community.  In the meantime, having an interim spot that’s designated for skaters is a step in the right direction.”

Porter, SBSI members, Sturgeon Bay School Superintendent, Joe Stutting, YMCA Executive Director, Dan Powell, and Sturgeon Bay Parks and Recreation Superintendent, Bob Bordeau, met at a public meeting last week to brainstorm options for summer skating. The recently-blacktopped playground at Sunset School was decided upon and is available through mid-August.  Discussions will be ongoing with the YMCA for possible space for the fall season.

Portable skating elements such as rails, manual pads and quarter pipes for the interim space will be provided by members of SBSI at their own risk. The Sunset School playground is fenced, but not locked.  At the request of SBSI members, the area will be protected by a security camera to discourage theft and vandalism.  The Sturgeon Bay Parks Department will provide trash and recycling receptacles. Skating will be allowed from dawn to dusk.  SBSI is seeking the donation or loan of a portable storage trailer or shed.

SBSI co-chair and skateboarder, Matt Dixner Young, welcomes the cooperative spirit of all the entities working to come up with the interim solution.  “I can speak for the skating community in saying that having a sanctioned space is wonderful.  We remain focused on raising funds for the permanent skatepark, but are pleased to have a place until that’s a reality.”

SBSI is working in partnership with the City of Sturgeon Bay to create a public skatepark where skateboarders and BMX bikers of every level can meet in a challenging and safe environment.  SBSI has hired the firm, Grindline Designs of Seattle, Washington, to create a park design and expects to have final plans and building costs later this month. Fundraising efforts will continue through 2012. The group hopes to break ground for the new park in the spring of 2013.

More information about the ongoing efforts of SBSI and the interim skate space is available by contacting co-chairs Matt Dixner Young (920-559-6880) or Laurel Hauser (920-493-0572).  SBSI is a fund of the Door County Community Foundation.