Skatepark Update

Since this past June, skaters have met with key players in the planning of a future skatepark in Celina. We've met local concrete contractor Matt Schwieterman who has been involved in the development of 3 skateparks - DC Skate Plaza, in Kettering being the most famous. We've also met with two Celina City officials who are working hard for us. Kent Bryan is the Community Developer here in Celina, and Jeremy Hinton is an engineer. We've met with one or both of them on 3 or 4 occasions just since August. Jeremy and Matt have also met, blending their knowledge and expertise.

At our last meeting Jeremy said that we would brainstorm one last time. He and his student helper are now drawing up a skatepark design based on the input of several of our local skaters. Everybody at the meeting seemed happy with the rough drafts and we're excited to see the professional renderings. Jeremy is running things through his professional CAD program and plans to have computer drawings finished in December. He will then provide 3-D renderings that we can post on our website.

Once we have these drawings in hand, we need to go full speed with community, club and corporate presentations to raise the rest of the money. The way I see it, momentum is building and we must push for a skatepark like never before. I have been told by at least three city officials that they realize now that we are not going away and something has to be done. This is the direct result of efforts by skaters, families and friends over the last 15 years or so!

We've raised just over $16,000. The city realizes that is a serious amount of money sitting in the Mercer County Civic Foundation that MUST be spent for a skatepark. Recently they have suggested that the park be built next to the Bryson Pool. Most of us like the idea, but it's not a done deal yet. More money needs to be raised and the City Council needs to be won over.

Spread the good word. Skate respectfully and work to win the trust of the city. We especially need to win local business owners who've been vandalized over the years. I know it's not always skaters but it's has been enough in the past that it's given skaters a rep. And we must also show our local police officers respect. They will talk about you as positively as you treat them. We need all of our city on our side.

Keep up the good work. More trust, less trouble - that needs to be our motto.

See you at the next Skate Day!
Keith