May Meeting Recap
Written on May 22, 2011
On Saturday, May 21st, a couple of skateboarders took a break from the afternoon sun at Trailside Skatepark (Herndon) to gather in the shade and discuss some ideas for a new skatepark in northern Virginia. The conversation focused on unique and progressive ideas on what, how, and where the skatepark would be.
An indoor skatepark was first brought up and emphasized that there currently aren't any indoor skateparks in a 1.5 hour radius of Herndon. Everyone seemed to be in agreement that this type of weather-protected, all-year-round skatepark is definitely needed, however, a conflict was noticed as a variety of operating finances became more evident. Some strategies were discussed on how to eliminate costs of rent, bills, insurance, etc. by offering monthly sponsorships to businesses and individuals (more explained here). As the strategy was discussed, some uncertainty was seen as consistently locking in sponsorships would most likely be a difficult task. This specific strategy was brought up mainly because it sought a possibility of the skatepark operating as a non-profit facility by accepting sponsorships as donations which would eliminate entrance fees and high monthly costs. An alternative solution that was brought up was an outdoor skatepark covered by a pavilion - Skatepark De Paris was listed as an example of this concept. Having a pavilion in replacement of an indoor facility would eliminate monthly rent and most utilities that are typically required for indoor spaces and at the same time keep most of the benefits as an indoor skatepark (weather-protected and open all-year-round for the most part). I plan to look more into this concept and see if it could be a possible direction we would want to steer our skatepark project to.
Scattered skate spots was a second option that was brought up for the new skatepark project. This plan would consist of constructing mini skate spots (1-3 obstacles) throughout northern Virginia. This concept sought much more positive aspects than an indoor skatepark did - being small spots it would be relatively cheaper and faster to fundraise for and construct (more explained here). Skate Paths (England) was mentioned as a great role model for this concept. Basically, Skate Paths is a wavy, narrow pathway that guides skateboarders through a variety of obstacles as it weaves through Central Forest Park. Both scattered skate spots and skate paths are great alternatives to the typical square-shaped skatepark and are definitely within our radar as far as the new skatepark project goes.
Overall, the meeting went well and a broad range of ideas were discussed which leaves LOCO in consideration between a handful of unique options. Not one specific idea was chosen however, as we do some more research on the examples above, we hope to narrow down our choices to one that fits the needs and desires of the local skateboarding community. As always, we are still encouraging feedback and would love for some of you all to drop us a line about what you think of these ideas above.
Thanks to those who came out to the meeting and expressed interest in this exciting project!
