KENNEBUNK – The rejuvenated skatepark was celebrated during HarvestFest a couple of weeks ago and Kennebunk Select Board members are now exploring possible next steps for the park – and thinking about other community needs, as well.
Artisan Skateparks of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, renovated the park on Factory Pasture Lane earlier this year.
Artisan Skateparks, of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, renovated Kennebunk’s park on Factory Pasture Lane earlier this year. Dan King photo
The original park had seen a lot of use and there had long been a desire for an upgrade. It is a popular spot for young residents and for others, who come from nearby towns to skateboard, inline skate or ride scooters and BMX bikes.
Board member Miriam Whitehouse suggested the board establish a committee to look at next steps, “concrete ideas, and costs,” she said.
But while the idea for a committee was met with some reluctance, board members discussed the prospect of a future workshop and a survey to see what is on people’s minds.
Upgrades to the skateboard park had long been sought and $100,000 was allocated several years ago. With design costs and related expenses, that dwindled to about $85,000. Based on the money available and some successful fundraising, the town was able to come up with enough money to install two features and to lay down asphalt.
Board member Lisa Pratt said her youngsters are happy with the result.
Town Manager Mike Pardue said he spoke to middle school students about local government recently and they brought up the skatepark. He said the young people were supportive of what had been done and would like more.
Board member Leslie Trentalange said those who skate elsewhere, instead of Kennebunk, ought to be asked for their input.
Board member Kortney Nedeau said, “we have to remember to start where we are,” and that her email is not getting bombarded every day with the skatepark as a large priority.
Board member Bill Ward said he has had calls about a lack of a teen center in town.
“That’s a need in the community as well,” he said.
Shiloh Schulte, chair of the select board, said he would like to discuss the matter and others with Parks and Recreation Director, William Reichl.
“I’d like to hear from the director what needs his department is seeing right now,” said Schulte. “Is it a lack of facilities for teens, lack of capacity for kids in elementary and middle school for fields, etc.; where are we falling down, where are we doing well, what priorities he sees going forward.”
Members agreed they would like to hear from him as part of the regular series they have been hosting on staff presentations.
Resident Brenda Robinson noted there is little for teens except the skatepark, a basketball court and school sports, which do not interest some young people.
“We need to invest in our kids,” she said. “That’s how we keep graffiti out of Waterhouse Center and mischief out of the downtown on Saturday night.”
Comments are not available on this story.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
