Let’s start with the always interesting- How long have you been skateboarding and who influenced you to start?

I started skating around 1983 or so. After riding a purple plastic banana board and a crappy Nash or something, I graduated to my first “real” board the Vision Mark Gonzales. At that time, I also discovered punk rock and my life completely changed. I was attracted to the fact that skating was an outlaw sport and I was influenced heavily by the bands I was listening to and skaters like Gonzales, Alva, Natas, Staab, Hosoi, Vallely and the Bones Brigade.

Very cool. We have a lot in common with our first boards, influence of music and favorite skaters. In a nutshell, please explain to our readers what Art of Board and I Ride I Recycle is, are all about.

Art of Board is a lifestyle brand that embodies the creative spirit, freedom and individuality of skateboarding.

The company was founded on pushing stylish and functional design toward a sustainable future by creating products from broken, recycled skateboard decks. But not just any products…

Using hand-cut tiles from these decks, we provide commercial and residential spaces and retailers with unique, sustainable design solutions to help them reach an audience, sell products or create a defining style or experience. We pride ourselves on embracing and reusing the entire recycled skateboard deck in our design process. Keeping every scratch, scrape and gouge in tact ensures that no two designs are ever alike – making Art of Board truly original.

Through our national skate deck recycling movement – I Ride I Recycle – skateboarders, skateshops, skateparks and skateboard manufacturers become part of our designs by recycling their broken decks and wood waste instead of tossing them in the trash.

I Ride I Recycle is the FIRST-EVER, national (soon to be global), grassroots skate deck recycling movement. Dedicated to the protection of our environment by keeping broken skateboard decks and manufacturer wood waste out of landfills, we ARE the industry solution. I Ride I Recycle shifts skateboarding from a disrespected art form to one that embraces recycling, environmentally responsible manufacturing, reusing wood waste and broken decks, supporting charities and local skateshops, promoting skatepark builds in low-income areas and empowering youth with an eco-friendly DIY mentality.

Wow, what an amazing idea. Not surprising that you’re going global. Sounds like it has been a success from beginning. What inspired you to start AoB and IRIR? Anything in particular that sparked the full circle concept?

Art of Board was founded by Rich Moorhead and I became part of the company a few years later. The idea was born peripherally from his desire to open a skate shop 10 years ago. Bored with corporate life, he recognized a demand for a shop in his hometown of Hanover, PA. The shop never happened, in large part because locals wouldn’t rent to him knowing it was a skate shop. During this same period of time, Rich’s nephew was heavily into skating and had a pile of broken decks slated for the trash. Having a carpentry background, Rich asked him to hold off on the trash bin, as he saw something in the worn graphics, scrapes and gashes appearing on every deck. From there he started experimenting with various creations.

Rich began showing those creations to skate shops outside his local area and questioned where their broken decks ended up. He saw a pattern developing, with a consistent answer of, “We trash them.” Shops were more than happy to donate their piles of wreckage, knowing Rich was doing something creative in return.

As his projects evolved, so did the possibilities in working with the form pressed material. Developing a method using small squares, which created a very colorful palate and minimized waste, allowed the curved material to lie flat and Rich began experimenting with a tile concept. Knowing the industry was littered with broken decks, he was sure this could be the sustainable solution for the skate industry, providing true environmental impact. A few years later the demand for our Sk8 Tile fed off of our grass roots recycling movement called “I Ride I Recycle” and was the first comprehensive recycling movement in the skateboard industry.

Bruce Boul and Rich Moorhead

It’s hard to believe no one else thought of this. It just makes complete sense thru and thru. What are some of the success stories to date you have had with the board art, skate shops and ultimately giving back to skateboarding and public parks?

With a few high profile projects in the works, Art of Board is proud to have contributed to the LEED Platinum, Cherokee Lofts in West Hollywood, which was featured in Interior Design Magazine last summer, as well as Tile Magazine. Our product was also an integral part of the Life Rolls On (A Subsidiary of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation) boardroom and reception area. And most recently we tiled the new Birdhouse ramp inside of Tony Hawk, Inc. in Vista, CA as well as designed a set for his new YouTube Channel, the Ride Channel. Wahoo’s Fish Taco in Las Vegas will be designed with Art of Board tile surfaces and also Laughing PLanet Cafe in Portland, Oregon.

We’re proud of finding a solution to the mountains of waste sitting in skateshops across the country and the best part is that Art of Board’s business model focuses on giving back to skateboarding in a major way by supporting skateboard charities and skateparks and helping to drive business to local skateshops that join I Ride I Recycle. It costs nothing for shops, parks and companies to join and Art of Board absorbs all shipping costs of recycled decks.

We support various charities, with the biggest being Tony Hawk’s Stand Up for Skateparks, which raises money to build skateparks in low-income areas.

The counter at Laughing Planet.

The office pillar at Life Rolls On.

That’s quite a resume. SPS appreciates working with the Hawk Foundation as well. Looking forward to success breeding success. I understand you have some exciting news for 2012…Can you share any of the details with us at this point?

Yes! Art of Board’s nationwide skateboard deck recycling movement gives the action sports industry many legitimate reasons to recycle broken decks through their program. And now we have another. His name is Mike Vallely and he’s going to make sure that message is heard loud and clear! So, through a series of public service announcements appearing online and in various skateboard magazines this year, Mike and us are screaming for change in an industry that has a social responsibility to keep wood waste out of landfills.

We’re thrilled to align ourselves with Mike. Not only is he one of the most influential skaters of all time, but we share the same principles when it comes to skateboarding, philanthropy and creating positive change. We’ll be working directly with him and also through his new Elephant Brand Skateboards to promote I Ride I Recycle.

Also this year, Art of Board is teaming up with the International Association of Skateboard Companies (IASC) to create recycling bins to not only collect broken decks, but also used ones that can be refurbished and donated to IASC’s Just One Board and Skatepark of Tampa’s Boards for Bros – two programs that provide used skateboards for at-risk youth who cannot afford their own.

Art of Board will also have new and exciting products coming, including peel and stick wall graphics and lots of other cool stuff I can’t mention now. But we’re making the recycled skate tile concept accessible to everyone in one form or another.

The table at Mike Vallely's Weekend Buzz.

Mike V and the IASC will be huge assets too. Stoked to see what’s next…
How do you feel your organization(s) could partner with SPS to further the cause for public skateparks everywhere?

The more we grow, the more we’ll be able to do. Right now, we work directly with the Tony Hawk Foundation and we donate giveaway items to every new park opening as well as make that park an I Ride I Recycle park. We also sponsor a lot of skate jams and contests at parks all over the country. So, the plan is to grow our movement and build Art of Board to the point where we can offer more and more support to ALL parks. Aligning with SPS is something we will do and through things like art shows and other events, sponsoring contests, donating giveaway items. We’ll do all we can and are open to any ideas you guys have.

That all sounds really good. We’ll have to brain storm as a Board and see what partnering ideas we can come up with… How’s this for a closing question- Picture yourself with 5 minutes or less to speak at any city council or parks board meeting in any town or city…What would you say to city officials, board members and the rest of the community to help them understand skateboarding better and why skateparks are so important?

I would say that if their city doesn’t have a skatepark, then their city IS a skatepark. I have seen firsthand how important the parks are to kids through Tony Hawk’s Stand Up for Skateparks. I met at-risk kids from Long Beach, CA and other areas where they lived hard lives and finally had one passion…one thing that they loved with all their heart, that gave them hope. It was skateboarding, but they had nowhere to do it except in their dangerous, gang-ridden streets. They feared getting shot just going out to skate. These parks give them a place to do it safely. It will give them hope and a sense of community and a positive outlet to express their creativity. And this kind of stuff will live with these kids forever and shape them into positive and productive young men and women.

That’s perfect because SPS’s motto is “If your city doesn’t have a skatepark, it is a skatepark”. I must say Bruce that this interview has really blown me away…We have a lot in common with our skateboarding roots, but what you’re doing with I Ride I Recycle and Art of Board is uniquely brilliant. You and Rich have worked very hard and accomplished so much with tons of exciting growth in your near future. On behalf of the rest of the SPS Board, I thank you for your time, positive energy in sharing your story and the opportunity for us to work with your organization. Your whole concept of recycling skate decks into more art, than giving back through support of skateparks and more is very inspiring to all of us.

Art of Board/I Ride I Recycle has offices in California and Pennsylvania.
Their motto is- BROKEN SKATEBOARDS=SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
Please check out and follow ArtofBoard.com and iRideiRecycle.com

There simply aren’t enough good skateparks or skateboarding venues in America.

Skateboarders need safe places to skate. We hope that these figures of our 2011 USA skateboarding fatality report illuminates the gravity of this tragic problem.

As skateboarding continues to increase in popularity in America we know that skateparks and venues set aside for safe skating are the best way to encourage this healthy activity in the safest possible way. However, relatively few communities have accessible skateparks, and fewer still have skateparks that offer compelling terrain and are large enough to accommodate all of the nearby users. When there are no skateboarding venues, skaters practice wherever they can such as along rural roads instead of on driveways, or in public parking lots instead of skateparks. If a skatepark is poorly built, it doesn’t retain their interest and challenge participants. If the skatepark is well designed and constructed, it gets a lot more use.

Experienced skateboarders also enjoy using their skateboards whenever possible, and will skate to and from work, school, parks, shopping…a great way to stay “green” as well as be fit. We are sure that you know someone who skates, or you have seen skateboarders – we are more common than you think!

As skateboarders we accept the risk of injury every time we step on a board and usually do a great job of skating within the limits of our abilities. In our report these skateboarders all believed that what they were doing was within their acceptable level of risk taking.

Not everyone skateboards competitively. Some people skateboard for transportation, others for the recreation and freedom of expressing themselves in a movement art that has all the best benefits of physical and mental exercise. It is an activity that encompasses all ages, genders and races worldwide.

This report is not a mere list of skateboarders in the wrong place at the wrong time. This report of USA fatalities may mention some of the factors involved. These factors include the differing types of skateboards used, the activity the rider was doing on the board, as well as the skating venue. We list the skater’s name, age, and basic details of the situation that lead to the accident. We also provide one of the numerous online links reporting the accident.

Throughout 2011 Skaters for Public Skateparks (SPS) tracked several aspects of skateboarding activity including skateboard-related fatalities as reported in the media, online sources, and other publishing sources. It is not guaranteed to be completely accurate.

This subject matter requires sympathy, compassion and delicacy. We want to express our heartfelt condolences to the families of those listed in this report. We hope that the media will use better details in explaining what happened, using facts instead of emotion to report such tragic events. We hope that all skateboarders will consider becoming more aware in their skateboarding activities. We hope this report will assist in making skateboarding safer for all.

If you have any wish to discuss this article, add information, inform us of corrections, please request for Teresa to contact you by writing a note at the bottom of this article.  Should you use our statistics and reports, make sure you credit us, Skaters For Public Skateparks,

Respectfully, Teresa Waters and SPS

Skaters For Public Skateparks, Teresa Waters

Reports – Table of Contents: …………………..…………………………

Skateboarding Equipment Terminology – including a short definition of the vocabulary used to describe the most common types of skateboards this report uses. Some pictures provided. 

Skateboarding Activity Terminology – definitions of the disciplines this report uses.

Fatalities by the type of skateboard riden – a list by skateboard type only.

Fatalities by the skateboarding activity – a list by skateboarding activity only.

Fatalities by State – a list of the number of deaths by State.

Fatalities by Age – the number of deaths by age.

Fatalities by Location / Venue – a list of where the accident occurred.

Fatalities by Gender

Fatalities List – a list of the skateboarders’ names, ages, city, State, what happened, and an online source.

Fatalities Conclusion

Equipment Terminology…………………………………………………………….

There are 4 types of skateboard decks and setups:

1. Short boards –

Used primarily in transistion skating and street skating, these short decks are lightweight, easy to jump with, and pivot quickly. Narrow trucks and a short length to the deck provide a light and highly responsive skateboard. Shortboards are very common in skateparks. Many parents are unaware that the toy versions of short boards sold at big chain stores, toy stores, and franchise sporting goods stores are actually very unsafe, with poorly constructed wood decks of brittle woods and hard plastic wheels or even plastic trucks. A safe short board setup will start at $75, unlike the toys which start at $20. Most shortboarders will wear protection according to their needs or the rules of their skate venue.

2. Slalom boards –

A sport specific board that is longer than a short board, but shorter than a long board, these decks are akin to the late 80′s pool decks that provide a nice wide platform to stand on while being easy to manuver for sweeping turns and tight carves. A custom setup will provide the expert rider with reponsive carving ability due to sport specific trucks, bushings, wedges and wheels. If you see one it is most likely being used on a derby hill carving graceful curves and arcs, or in tight and fast lines. A starter sport setup will start at about $225. Most slalom riders wear helmets, kneepads, and other appropriate padding at all times. All slalom competitions require helmets and sometimes also knee and elbow protection.

3. Long boards   –

These decks are very long, sometimes as long as the skater is tall, providing a low center of gravity and ease of cruising ability for the rider. Wide trucks and large, soft wheels offer the rider the ability to skate over rough terrain and maintain a stable platform that is extremely difficult to upset. These boards are very common for skaters who use these for transportation. These usually start at about $160. The easiest of the boards for the beginner to start on, long boards are excellent for use on bike paths, boardwalks, fitness trails, and sidewalks for recreation and slow transportation. Most long boarders do not use any protection at all when riding.

4. Downhill boards

– A sport specific board that provides all the benefits of a long board, plus added shaping and increased durability of the deck to withstand speeds of upwards of 60 mph. These boards will be customized by the athlete to eliminate truck vibration (have speed wobble dampening), have wide and grippy wheels, and a responsive – yet stable – carving ability for the expert rider. These top of the line boards are used by expert skateboarders and usually start at about $340 for a decent setup. All downhill competitions require athletes wear full face helmets. Most downhill athletes also wear a full leather suit, and appropriate knee and arm protection at all times when “bombing” a hill.

 Click here for a photo album of different types of skateboards in more detail. 

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Skateboarding Activity Terminology ——————————————————

There are 4 types of skateboarding techniques used to generate movement by the rider.

1. Bombing – When skateboarder’s goal is to speed down a hill or very long path in a straight line, with gravity generating the rolling movement of the skateboarder. Bombing can be performed recreationally or as a sport in any area that provides an incline of more than 25 feet in length and upwards of many miles. It is outlawed in most of America outside of specific skateboarding venues. When at speed in excess of 5 mph, the bomber will control speed of decent with power sliding, hand sliding, and foot breaking. Bombing should only be performed by trained skateboarders on longboards specifically set up to prevent any speed wobbles or wheel bite. Bombing is an activity where body and full head protection should be worn. (Example of Downhill athletes practicing bombs and slides on downhill boards) 

2. Street – When a skateboarder’s goal is to get from point a to point b, on flat or somewhat broken terrain, at a leisurely pace. Recreationally, depending on the skateboarder’s ability and equipment, street skating may include jumping, grinding, power sliding, pivoting as well as basic rolling. Movement is primary generated by the skater pushing against the ground with the foot that is off the board.  It is safe and easy to jump or run out of street skating techniques, as this type of skating does not generate high speeds. Hip and tailbone protection and light weight skull cap helmets are recommended for beginner street skateboarders. (Example of street skating.) 

3. Transitions – Skating on a curved radius including bowls, pools, half pipes or other obstacles that a skateboarder can roll on with the intent of rolling and landing on said obstacles for the purpose of having fun. Generating energy for movement, the skater keeps both feet on the skate board and increases speed by pumping vertically or horizontally on the transition.  Knee pads and light weight cap helmets are recommended. (Example of transition skateboarding.) 

4. Skitching – Skating while holding onto a vehicle which tows the skateboarder. Illegal in every State.

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Fatalities by the Type of Skateboard Ridden  (total = 42)

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Fatalities by the Skateboarding Activity….………………

*These statistics are best guesses based on the place of accident, what the skateboarder was doing at the time of the accident, and what the source reports state as cause of death.

return to table of contents or Public Skateparks, Teresa Waters

Fatalities by State……………………………………………………………

California = 11 fatalities

Texas = 4 fatalities

Virginia = 3 fatalities

States with 2 fatalities in each: = 10 fatalities; Georgia, Maryland, New York, Ohio, Oregon.

States with 1 fatality in each: = 14 fatalities; Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Wisconsin.

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Fatalities by Age……………………………………………………………..

The youngest fatality was 11 years old.

The eldest fatality was 35 years old.

Seven of the fatalities were 15 years old. This is the spike in the “by Age” report.

The average age of a skateboarding fatality in 2011 is 17 years old.

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By Location…………………………………………………………………..

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By Gender……………………………………………………………….

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Skateboarding Fatalities List 2011………………..………………………

1.) Jamison Tuckett (15 years old, Layton, Utah)

Hit by a vehicle while on his long board.

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/news/51080025-78/layton-police-325-2200.html.csp

2. Jordan Weiss (17 years old, Sherman Oaks, California)

Fell while bombing a hill on his skateboard during the day.

http://shermanoaks.patch.com/articles/teen-killed-in-accident-skateboarding-without-a-helmet

3.) Meshach Queen (17 years old, Columbus,Ohio)

Hit by an SUV at night along an unlit rural road.

http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2011/02/10/skateboarder-struck-killed-on-road-wore-dark-clothing.html

4.) Trevor Ryan Searle (18 years old, Travis County, Texas)

Fell while skitching with his downhill team mates.

http://www.kxan.com/dpp/news/local/Teen-killed-in-skateboarding-accident

5.) Riley Henry (17 years old,  Middletown, Indiana)

Hit by a pickup truck while skating at night.

http://www.theindychannel.com/news/27181348/detail.html

6.) Jacob Gutierrez (15 years old, Bloomington, California)

Hit and run by a truck in the afternoon.

http://www.instantriverside.com/2011/03/bloomington-skateboarder-jacob-gutierrez-dies-following-hit-and-run/

7.) Joe Hyland (24 years old, Santa Rosa, California)

  Hit by a vehicle.

  http://santarosa.towns.pressdemocrat.com/2011/03/news/skateboarder-remembered-as-generous-friend/

8.)  Jesse Joseph Sawyer (16 years old, Groves, Texas)

 Hit by an SUV at night.

  http://panews.com/local/x641328340/Sawyer-remembered-for-skateboarding-pride-in-Scouting

9.) Shashwat Sharma (16 years old, Ashburn, Virginia)

Fell while street skating on his short board.

http://www.loudountimes.com/index.php/news/article/teenager_falls_from_skateboard_in_life-threatening_condition123/

10.) Heath Eiland (16 years old, Austin, Texas)

Fell while bombing a highway embankment.

http://www.kvue.com/news/Anderson-HS-student-dies-in-skateboarding-accident-121675624.html

11.) Anthony Briffa (19 years old, Brick, New Jersey)

Hit by a vehicle at night.

 http://www.jerseycitypersonalinjuryblog.com/2011/06/brick-skateboarder-killed-in-alleged-drunk-driving-accident.shtml

12.) Keegan Scott Clinger (21 years old, Lenordtown, Maryland)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://somd.com/news/headlines/2011/13738.shtml

13.) Graham Bultemeier (21 years old, Los Alamos, NM)

Fell while bombing down a hill.

http://vimeo.com/25294023

14.) Edward Culhane (35 years old, Santa Clarita, California)

Fell while skitching.

http://www.bloggingthelaw.com/2011/05/24/skateboarders-wrongful-death-caused-by-drunk-driver

15.) Jeffery Todd McAbee  (22 years old, Gafnee, South Carolina)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www2.wspa.com/news/2011/jun/03/22-year-old-gaffney-skateboarder-dies-after-accide-ar-1923728/

16.)  Tyler Seay (16 years old, Dawsonville, Georgia)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www.beardenfuneralhome.com/tyler-kenneth-seay

17.)  Forest Andrews (18 years old, Hood River, Oregon)

Fell while skating down a hill.

http://www.boardistan.com/?p=23750

18.)  Larry Moore (24 years old, Porterville, California)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www.recorderonline.com/articles/vehicle-49155-struck-vehicles.html

19.)  Alexandria “Alix” Rice (18 years old, Amhurst, New York)

Hit and run by a car at night.

http://www.wgrz.com/news/article/127354/13/Remembering-18-Year-Old-Killed-in-Hit–Run-

20.)  Scotty O’Connor (20 years old, Hillsboro, Oregon)

Fell while bombing a hill.

http://www.kptv.com/story/15060921/skateboarder-dies-after-suffering-head-injury-in-fall

21.)  Yunze Sun (15 years old, Crozet, Virginia)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www2.dailyprogress.com/news/2011/jul/16/crozet-teen-killed-after-being-hit-car-ar-1177196/

22.) Calvin Kelley (15 years old, Knoxville, Tennesse)

Fell at a skatepark on his short board.

http://www.wbir.com/news/article/178083/2/Skateboarder-dies-more-than-week-after-hitting-head

23.) Jacob Nouskhajian (15 years old, Panama City, Florida)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www.xskater.com/no-charges-expected-in-skateboarding-death-walton-sun-1757.html

24.) Seth Dunn (20 years old, Cayucos, California)

Fell while skating down a hill.

http://www.sanluisobispo.com/2011/08/04/1706832/20-year-old-dead-after-skateboarding.html

25.)  Nicholas Silva-Thomas (17 years old, Taunton, Massachucetts)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://articles.boston.com/2011-08-07/news/29861952_1_skateboarder-police-department-paul-baran

26.)  Johnathan Olagues (12 years old, Rialto, CA)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://articles.sfgate.com/2011-09-07/news/30126172_1_hit-and-run-death-rialto-license-plate

27.)  Brett Bertsch (18 years old, Mammoth Lakes, California)

Fell while skating down a hill on his long board.

http://www.sierrawave.net/8094/irvine-teen-dies/

28.)  Mark Harding Jr. (14 years old, College Station, Texas)

Hit by a DPS car while street skating at night across a rural freeway.

http://www.kbtx.com/home/headlines/130036993.html

29.)  Dillon Lee Coggeshall (21 years old, Tulsa, Oklahoma)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?subjectid=18&articleid=20110927_18_A13_OralRo811963

30.) Jared West (15 years old, Delmar, Delaware)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www.wgmd.com/?p=36524

31.) Brandon Reese (16 years old,  Port Deposit, Maryland)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/explore/harford/news/ph-re-port-death-1007-20111007,0,1317514.story

32.) Kate Mausteller (22 years old, Harrisonburg, Virginia)

Fell while skating down a hill.

http://www.wydaily.com/sports/7473-wca-hosts-prayer-vigil-for-2008-grad-katie-mausteller.html

33.)  Oleksandr Safronov (15 years old, Long Island, New York)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www.newsday.com/long-island/nassau/mourners-remember-bethpage-skateboarder-1.3302295

34.) Michael John Manzari (21 years old, Wilmington, North Carolina)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://yellowtape.blogs.starnewsonline.com/16905/skateboarder-hit-by-car-has-been-identified/

35.) Olando Coleman (19 years old, Columbus, Ohio)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www.clevescene.com/scene-and-heard/archives/2010/11/11/skateboarder-dies-after-public-square-accident

36.) Joseph “Joey” Tafoya III (11 years old, Vallejo, California)

Hit by a garbage truck while bombing a hill in his neighborhood.

http://www.news10.net/news/local/article/162608/2/1-skateboarder-dies-1-injured-in-collision-with-Vallejo-garbage-truck

37.) Philip Kyle Lee (14 years old, Cairo, Georgia)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www.wctv.tv/wswg/headlines/Cario_Boy_Dies_in_133963963.html

38.) Will Abrisch (14 years old, York, Pennsylvania)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www.fox43.com/news/wpmt-will-abrisch-car-crashes-into-skateboarder-in-york-county,0,6878201.story

39.)  Matthew Parish (17 years old, El Cajon, California)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www.updt.me/go?item=teen-skateboarder-killed-in-accident

40.) Dominik Halling (17 years old, La Crosse, Wisconsin)

Hit by a vehicle.

http://www.wxow.com/story/16418154/fatal-skateboarding-accident?clienttype=printable

41.) Michael Borojevich   (14 years old, San Pedro, California)

He fell and suffered head trauma, died 11 days after his accident.

http://www.tributes.com/show/Michael-Borojevich-92900053

42.)    Kameron Steinhoff   (21 years old, Kaneohe, Hawaii)

Fell while bombing a hill.

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In Conclusion………………………………………………..

Communities across the nation are realizing the value of skateparks as a safe place, vehicle free, where skateboarding is accepted as a healthy, positive recreational choice. In a society that is staggering under its own obesity (and the fact that traditional sports participation is in steady decline) it is paramount we realign our communal view of what healthy activity is and provide adequate facilities for these activities.

Skaters For Public Skateparks, teresa Waters

This research supports a view that most skateboarders share through personal observation;  when combined with an extenuating circumstance like vehicular traffic and unsafe terrain skateboarding can become deadly.

Skaters For Public Skateparks, Teresa

In 2011, of the 42 skateboard related fatalities, 27 skateboarders were struck and killed by vehicles.  A total of 30 fatalities involved a vehicle in some manner.  Some of the fatalities were hit and run incidents, many involved drunk drivers and / or texting drivers, one was even a State trooper vehicle.

Skaters For Public Skateparks, Teresa
The youngest death was an 11 year old boy who could not stop his skateboard from going under a garbage truck that crossed his path while he and another child laid back on the board as they bombed (speeding down a hill) a neighborhood sidewalk, unviewable by the driver who was traumatized by the accident when the children rolled into a street intersection. The oldest death was a 35 year old man who fell off his board while “skitching” (holding on to a moving car). The average age of the forty skateboarding deaths in 2011 was 18. The majority of the fatalities were only 15 years old.

Skaters For Public Skateparks, Teresa Waters,Teresa Waters

California suffered 11 fatalities, of which 6 (55% ) were caused by a vehicle.

Texas suffered 4 fatalities, of which 2 ( 50%) were caused by a vehicle.

Virginia suffered 3 fatalities, 1 (33%) of which was caused by a vehicle.

Georgia, Maryland, New York, Ohio, Oregon suffered 2 fatalities each, of which all (100%) were caused by a vehicle.

30 of the 42 skateboarding fatalities for 2011 involved a vehicle,

that’s 71% involving a vehicle.

Skaters For Public Skateparks

71% of the 2011 Skater Fatalities involved a vehicle. Of the 30 fatalities that involved a vehicle, all of them were on a public street or public bike lane.  Some were at night, some were during the day. Most could have been prevented if one of the parties involved (usually the vehicle) had just proceeded with caution. Also, since not only head trauma, but blunt force trauma to the body had occurred in these collisions, it is evident that no amount of body or head
protection could completely protect a cautious skateboarder from death when hit by a vehicle.

Body armor is not the only thing that can save lives. The different types of skateboarding disciplines require specialized body and head protection,  equipment, and techniques that would actually be a hinderance in other disciplines. We estimate that at least 11 (26%) of the 42 fatalities for 2011 may have been prevented if the skateboarder had a helmet on at the time of their accident. It is difficult to say, as most helmets actually do not provide any facial protection and some of the skaters fell forward, not backward. It is clear that at least 2 (5%) of the fatalities definitely would have been prevented had the skater worn a helmet, as these were falls backward, not forward. (Shashwat Sharma and Calvin Kelley.)  26% to 5% is a big spread in those statistics, but we do know that head protection from skull fractures and concussive trauma can be greatly improved with the use of a skateboarding discipline – appropriate helmet. 

On a side note;

Much misinformation about the need for helmets for skateboarding is on the internet, as are many skewed statistics.   The statistics are skewed because they include rollerskating, inline skating, scooters, and ripsticks along with skateboarding in some hospital reports!  Also, according to http://www.aans.org/Patient%20Information/Conditions%20and%20Treatments/Sports-Related%20Head%20Injury.aspx, a participant in Bicycling, Football, Baseball, Softball, Basketball, [Race and Competitive] Diving, Scuba Diving, Surfing, Swimming, Water Polo, Water Skiing, Water Tubing, Soccer, and Driving powered recreational vehicles are more likely to suffer head injuries than a skateboarder.  

The many factors involved for safe skateboarding require mentoring and education to new skaters in order to reduce the amount of injuries and fatalities in this activity.  Also, most of the skaters who were hit by a vehicle suffered critical bodily injuries. It also appears that at least 6 (14% ) of the skateboarding fatalities may have simply been unaware of how to maintain and handle the equipment they were riding. Simple education and mentoring may have prevented these deaths.

Even with an abundance of caution, skateboarders need safe venues for skating that avoid the possibility of interaction with a vehicle. Safe skateparks for recreation and skater access to bike lanes, sidewalks, and safe transportation options away from vehicle traffic will go a long way toward reducing skater fatalities while encouraging this healthy and exciting activity.

Skaters For Public Skateparks, Teresa Waters Skateparks, Teresa Waters

Please, support your local skateboarders and lobby your Governments to build skateparks to keep our skateboarding communities safe and active.Get started and join us.

Keep skateboarding alive;

if you drive, slow down and go around!

Skateboarders: Be Bright, Wear Lights!

Skaters For Public Skateparks, Teresa Waters

Skaters for Public Skateparks Research Committee

This report may be reprinted without SPS consent. Please credit Skaters for Public Skateparks’s Research
2011 Director Teresa Waters, Content Coordinator

Skaters For
Public Skateparks, Teresa Watersreturn to table of contents

Have you ever wondered how many public skateparks are out there??? Have you ever wondered how many get built in a year??? The first question is almost impossible to answer. Public skateparks started being built in the 1970′s and continued at a very slow pace through the 80′s and 90′s. Once the new millennium hit public skateparks exploded across the U.S. This explosion happened so fast that it made things very difficult to keep track of.

However, in this modern age of social network sites and online newspapers it makes tracking skateparks much easier. Last year our group of volunteers carefully tracked public skateparks being built across the nation. We spent countless hours interviewing city officials, researching newspaper articles and following city council minutes.

Our goal was to find out how many skateparks are being built every year in the U.S. Also we are looking at how many square feet are being dedicated annually to public skateparks. Plus we are following the growing trends in skatepark build methods. As a result, we classified each build method into a Skatepark Type. The following is a list of five distinguished Skatepark Types you see being built in the U.S.

1) Poured in Place Concrete (PIP Concrete): This method involves traditional poured concrete and shotcrete installations.

Poured in Place Concrete Skatepark built in Poteet, TX.

2) Poured in Place Concrete and Precast Concrete: This method involves traditional poured concrete, shotcrete installations and installed precast concrete. This method is also known as In-Ground Precast.

Poured in Place Concrete/Precast Concrete built in Holland, MI.

3) Steel Prefab: This method consist of steel framed prefabricated equipment with either a steel or composite plastic later.

Steel Prefabricated Skatepark built in Kasson, MN.

4) Custom Wood: This method consists of custom wood framed construction.

Custom Wood Skatepark Hilton Head, SC.

5) Kickplate Precast: This method involves concrete precast ramps with a steel connector plate connecting the ramps to the ground. The steel connector plate is also referred to as a “kickplate”. This method is also known as Above Ground Precast.

Kickplate Precast features steel connection plates at the bottom of the precasted ramp. This park was completed in Washington, D.C.

The following skateparks that we have tracked are estimates. Due to the large amount of public skateparks being built it is really difficult to track every single one especially the smaller projects. However, we put forth a great deal of time and effort compiling the data we collected. The listed skateparks include completed projects by a municipality, county or reservation. We did not include skateparks owned and operated by schools, churches, military bases or a private entity. Also if the park is a hybrid mix of concrete and modular features we go with the dominant feature. For example, if there is more steel equipment than concrete features in the park, then the park is labeled as a steel park and vice versa. The projects listed below we consider completed skateparks for 2011…

This graph shows the number of skateparks completed by Skatepark Type.

We also documented skatepark additions. This includes new phases, add alternates and new equipment added on to an existing skatepark. We documented the communities adding prefabricated or modular equipment, but it is difficult to track this by the square footage and measure each added piece of equipment. That is why it is marked NA. Here is what we found…

Skateparks Completed in 2011: 101

Skatepark Additions Competed in 2011: 13

Total Skatepark Projects Completed  in 2011: 114

Skateparks Completed by the Square Foot in 2011:  845,205

Skateparks Additions Completed by the Square Foot 2011: 37,800

Total Skatepark Projects Completed by the Square Foot in 2011: 883,005

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The Top Six States with the Most Skateparks Completed Per Square Foot in 2011

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Skateparks Tracked by SPS in 2011

View The 2011 Skatepark Tracker in a full screen map

Over the last couple of years we have seen an influx of public skateparks being built on Native American reservations. In fact, this is happening across the country in towns such as Tuba City, AZ; Sand Springs, OK and Pine Ridge, SD. Recently, we sat down with Lisa Fabian of the Nashoba Youth Foundation out of Poteau, OK. In the past year, Lisa has done an amazing job of getting a skatepark built in her hometown of Poteau, and another one started in the nearby town of Heavener. Both towns are on the Choctaw Reservation in Eastern Oklahoma.

Tell us about your background as a Billingual Director at Heavener Schools and the Nashoba Youth Foundation?

I have been the Bilingual Director at Heavener Schools for 15 years now. I founded Nashoba Youth Foundation in January 2011.

The Foundation was formed to combat problems faced by “at-risk” Native youth, and youth in general living in rural low income multicultural communities. There are a lot of problems the youth in this area face such as diabetes, obesity, substance abuse, suicide, teen pregnancy and dropouts.

What sparked your interest in getting a skatepark built in Poteau and Heavener??? Was it after you saw the park in Sand Springs???

The thing that sparked my interest was the fact that the youth in our area did not have ample outdoor activities. We needed something for those kids that do not get into team sports.

While researching I found information about the skatepark in Sand Springs. After checking it out and talking to Ryan Podswitt and Greg Mize with Native Skateparks, I knew that was what we needed.

Where were kids skating before the park and how far were they traveling to skate other parks?

The kids did not have a safe place to skate. They were skating at the fire station, on the incline at Arby’s, public parking lots and mostly the streets. They had to travel to Tulsa, which is almost two hours away to skate.

When you first approached Poteau and Heavener how did they respond???

When I first approached Poteau and Heavener the positive response was overwhelming. I began by approaching the City Manager at Heavener and the Mayor at Poteau. We then addressed it with the City Council. The vote in each town was unanimous.

Where did the funding for both projects come from?

The funding came from the cities, the Tony Hawk Foundation, the Nashoba Youth Foundation, other grants, and in-kind donations.

How long did it take from when you first approached Poteau to the ground breaking of the park?

We first approached Poteau the last week of January 2011 and the ground breaking began in July of 2011.

The construction crew pours the flat bottom.

You guys recently did a grand opening for Poteau how did that go, and how was the skatepark received by the community

The Grand Opening was exceptional. There were close to 400 in attendance. Todd Harder of Native Skates and the All Nation Skate Jam was there along with Doug Brown of Skate Straight. The Mayor and his wife told me that “…the dedication was grand.” and “…the turnout was excellent.” They also said I should be very proud of the new park.

The Mayor was also impressed with the quality of persons that Todd and Doug were. Everyone was impressed with the park and it has been received well from the community.

I have parents approaching me all the time telling me thank you and how their child’s grades have improved and how important it is to have something to keep them active. Plus I get a lot of kids thanking me. They also tell me, “…this is a dream come true.” and “…this is the best ideal ever.”

Poteau Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Todd Harder(left) and Lisa Fabian(right) at the Grand Opening.

What is going on with Heavener???

We have funding for the skatepark, but since it is a combination skatepark/splash pad we still need to raise more money. We hope to break ground soon on it. The skatepark has been approved; the plan, the design, and the contractor are all approved.

The design for Heavener.

What are your future plans for more skateparks in the area???

We would like to help other towns in the rural Southeast build skateparks. Especially to help “at-risk” youth and begin having Skate Jams in this area. I hope to see Poteau and Heavener become the pioneers of this. In March, we will have our first Skate Jam in Poteau.

Awesome Lisa! Thank you for the interview!

Bart shredding the new park!!!

Sometimes it takes years to get a good skatepark built in your town, and skaters are usually the ones leading the effort. SPS recently sat down with long time skater and skatepark advocate Dan Prasil. It took Dan and his crew over twelve to build a world class skatepark in their town. Check out how they did it…

How long have you been skating?

I’ve been skateboarding since I was 12 years old, I’m 26 now. My neighbor, Jason Havens, had a backyard ramp. I used to run back and forth on it, but didn’t take it up until he quit and gave me his skateboards. One of the skateboards he gave me was a World Industries Mike Vallely barnyard. I was awful at traditional stick and ball sports, but there was something about skateboarding and snowboarding that clicked. I suddenly wasn’t the worst person on the team anymore.

What’s the history of skateparks and skateboarding in Lewiston?

In the mid 1980’s, the city built its second skatepark in Lewiston. The previous park looked like a 1970’s wavy blob of concrete and was located a few hundred yards from our current skatepark. The downtown park suffered from the all too prevalent issues of bad design, construction and location. It was built in an asphalt parking lot in the center of downtown Lewiston. The park was terrible, but it was next to all the downtown skate spots like the Federal building. You could get warmed up at the skatepark, then go street skating. The park did have lights and I spent a lot time there on weekends and after school. It was better than not having a skatepark and we all had fun. However, the park didn’t do much to help progress kids or keep them interested. Most skaters either moved away when they turned 18 or they quit skating altogether.

How far were skaters traveling to other cities to skate?

We would travel anywhere from 30 to 300 miles to go skate good terrain. Portland, OR was the Mecca, but we also have the University of Idaho and WSU nearby. There is a high concentration of good skate spots, but it’s a half hour away and only skateable on summer weekends when no one is around.

What other public skateparks in Idaho or the NW influenced you?

About 6 or 7 years ago parks started to pop up in communities like Sandpoint and McCall. They were small cities with a fraction of our population, but they had sick parks. If they could do it, then we could too. It was motivating.

As far as a real influence I started looking into the Missoula (Montana) Skatepark Association as a guide. We basically copied what they did, and even held art shows similar to their “On Deck” auction. I don’t really know those guys and they probably have no idea how helpful they were to us. Thanks MSA.

What sparked your interest to start advocating for a park?

We had the same motivating factors as everyone else, no where to skate and no one to build it for you. Eventually the DIY mentality sets in and you build what you need to survive, it doesn’t matter if it’s a backyard mini, a flat bar, a skatepark or in a lot of cases all of the above. Finding Skaters for Public Skatepark was another turning point. Before I started researching the SPS website I had never heard the term “skatepark advocate.” There is no other group that has more information on the skatepark or how to get one. It’s a huge resource what we all have now thanks to them. If you searched the Internet for “Building a Skatepark” 6 or 7 years ago you wouldn’t find any useful information.

When did you start advocating for the park?

I remember Kris Johnson showing up at the park with the December 1999 issue of Thrasher Magazine. Mark Scott of Dreamland was on the cover and it read “Lincoln City America’s Gnarliest Skatepark.” He was all “this is the park we have to build.” When Mark showed up on site this last winter to help work on the park it was like everything came full circle.

The park in Lincoln City, OR was deemed the Gnarliest Park in America in 1999. This park influenced countless skaters to start advocating for design/build skateparks across the country.

Who did you guys approach first at the city?

It was Kris Johnson’s idea to start talking to the Parks and Rec. Eventually they set up a trust so that we could save the money from our fundraisers. We also started working with them to make the skatepark a top priority within their “master plan.” In 2008, I was asked to join the Parks and Rec Commission. This gave the skateboard community a seat at the table and allowed me to advocate for a skatepark in a way that few are able to. It makes me appreciate the work that goes into any city project.

After that we went before city council with Parks and Rec. and began to fill them in on our plan for the project. Eventually we asked the city council for money to support the park, but that was after we received some significant contributions and grants. It was hard for them to say, “NO”, to the $164,000 dollars of grant money we accumulated. The city council also approved the land sale of the old skatepark from the Parks and Rec. Department. It was another step to show that we were serious about the project, and that it was going to happen sooner rather than later.

What kind of fundraisers did you guys do?

We did all sorts of things. In the beginning, we did a lot of small events like skate comps, t-shirt sales, car washes, door to door stuff, and lots of other things. Lately we have been trying to do a few large events. We have learned it’s more productive to focus your time and energy on a few large projects, then trying to do car washes every weekend.

What was the first response you received from residents and the city when you suggested the park?

I think the biggest problem was dealing with the stereotypes and hang-ups.  There was and still is the notion that skaters are bad kids when in fact they are not.  They are just like any other group of kids that need a place to go, and something to do to keep them out of trouble. Things have changed a lot in the last ten years to make skateboarding more acceptable.  Part of the reason why so many parks are being built is because of this trend.  We still have people who generalize skateboarders and label them as “bad kids”, but the number is getting smaller every year.

What were the challenges over the years?

The biggest challenge was keeping people motivated. It was at least twelve years of actual fundraising. This does not include the years spent getting the city’s approval.

In 2003, everyone was over it and we stopped fundraising altogether. There was a two year stretch when we didn’t take in any donations at all. When I started telling people that we should try again to build this park even the skaters themselves doubted if we could do it. Most of my friends had moved away, stopped skating or had other responsibilities. Out of the original ten skaters who started the process in 1999, Kris and I are the only ones still involved. I had to rebuild and start the fundraising process over. At this point we only raised $9,000 and it was still there in the city trust not doing anything.

What was the process of choosing a location?

It was originally our Parks and Rec Director’s idea to look for a new location. They had been getting complaints for years about having the old skatepark located in the middle of a business district. You had to cross the downtown area to get from a residential area to the skatepark. This put the merchants at odds with the skaters because we needed the sidewalks just to get to the park and they were concerned about customers being run down by kids on skateboards.

At this time, I was turned on to SPS and I was looking into their published ideas of site selection. We placed the new skatepark in an existing park with other users; it’s accessible; it has good pedestrian and roadway visibility; and there is a lot of other activity going on around it. I think we have followed every SPS guideline for selecting a good site and it has paid off.

What sources did the funding come from?

Our first $10,000 came in the form of grassroots fundraisers. We tried everything imaginable, but most of it was on a small scale. We were only bringing in a few hundred dollars at a time, and we have hosted over 75 separate events. That is why I prefer fewer larger fundraising events now because a lot of time and energy went into that first $10,000.00

Afterwards I was able to convince my dad this was a worthwhile project and that our family business should support it. He came back with a $10,000.00 pledge from the Idaho Beverages Company; we are an independent Pepsi-Cola Bottler. One of only 80 franchises left in the country. Also I was able to get some money from the Pepsi Refresh and Mountain Dew to support the park. Our family business ended up donating around $43,000; we are the largest private donor to the project.

Our biggest funding source came from the Idaho Department of Park and Rec. Our new Parks and Rec. Director wrote a grant application and we flew down to Boise to meet with the grant selection committee. I think we lucked out because most people were not asking for much. We asked for the full amount of $245,000 and we came in 4th place with the money running out on us. We ended up getting around $164,000.

Furthermore, the City of Lewiston pledged $30,000 in tax money and we sold the old skatepark to a neighboring business for $80,000. We also received a donation from a local for $25,000 on the condition we build the pool and finish the park in one phase and not two. On top of that, we continued to do more grassroots fundraisers including the sale of granite bricks to be displayed at the future park. Plus a local event called Rockin on the River was also a big help. The event is a one day concert that donates all their proceeds to a charity. All we had to do was show up the last couple of years and help set up the stage.

Last but not least, the Tony Hawk Foundation gave us $10,000.00. After we received that money all we heard from little kids was that it was a Tony Hawk park and that he was coming to the opening. We even had parents accusing use of false advertising when he didn’t show up to the Grand Opening. It was ridiculous, but that grant comes with a lot of publicity and respect.

Was it a public bid process?

We put the whole project out for bid as a skatepark design/build proposal. This was good because all of the ten proposals had some skatepark construction experience. We didn’t have anyone bid on the skatepark that lacked experience with this sort of project.

How was the skatepark builder chosen?

After we reviewed all of the proposals we invited the top three contractors to give us presentations. Grindline had by far the most experience building the type of park we wanted. They were also a regional/local business and showed how a significant portion of the construction money would go to benefit local suppliers and businesses.

How did the build process go?

I was a little worried about the construction process heading into winter. We had been trying to start construction in August, but we were held up due to red tape. On Oct 1st an official ground breaking took place and they started about a month later. The Parks and Rec. crew did a lot of dirt work for the park and they did a really good job. This helped free up Grindline to concentrate on concrete. Both crews (Parks and Rec. and Grindline) had to work through some adverse conditions. We had a few weeks of snow and really cold weather, but they were able to pull it off.

The park under construction.

Explain the dimensions of the park?

The park is somewhat amoeba shaped and about 12,000 sq ft. There are 2 bowls and a large street/flow section. The deepest section in the main bowl is a little over 8 feet. We were limited on how deep we could go because of drainage.

The conceptual design.

What did you guys do for the grand opening?

We had the Mountain Dew Amateur Skate Team show up. Plus the Bacon and Lifeblood teams sent up Benji Galloway, Brenden Garcia, Cody Lockwood and a few others. Watching them rip up the park was one of my most memorable moments. We also had food vendors, live music, prizes and giveaways donated by Pepsi. Most importantly, we held a skate/bmx contest and the winners each won VIP passes to the Portland Dew Tour.

The first competition in the new park.

How did the public and skaters receive the park?

I hear the comment, “I didn’t know so many skaters lived in this town”, all the time. People who weren’t involved in the process had no idea the amount of people that would actually use the facility. We were averaging 70 people at a time in the park the first few months of summer. The one thing I hear from skaters is that there is not enough street and I can see that. On the other hand, there isn’t another bowl for 90 miles, so this is the first chance kids have ever had to ride transitions on an everyday basis. The younger kids are adapting fast.

Dan Prasil testing out the pool coping.

Are skaters traveling to the park from other towns?

We have had people from all over the Northwest, you can go down to the park every weekend and meet people who have traveled a hundred miles or more. We even had Dan Hughes come visit from Utah; it’s always been a secret dream of mine to have a legit skatepark on www.northwestskater.com. I was bummed when I heard he was going to be here while I was out of town.

Have you guys used the park for any events?

We have made a lot of conscious efforts to manage the park well. We had Skate Like a Girl come visit and do an impromptu demo. As well as a kids skate camp in the summer. We are trying to have a big focus on making the park community oriented and get as many people into skateboarding as possible.

What are your future plans?

Our main priority is to finish fundraising for the Skatepark. We have about $35,000 left to raise until we’re finished, not bad considering that we received most of the $400,000 within the last 18 months.

We also are starting to look into helping with smaller skate facilities in Asotin, WA (a few miles from Lewiston with a population of 2000 and my hometown) as well as Lapwai, ID on the Nez Perce Indian reservation. I would like to see a small network of skateparks within the Lewiston/Clarkston Valley and Lapwai area. It would be nice if we could follow the MSA and become a state wide origination, but we still have a lot of work to do internally before that can happen.

We also want to continue to be active at our current skatepark in the form of hosting events like SLAG and the kids skate camp. The more we do down at the park the better chance we have to positively affect the lives of the kids who use it.

Lewiston locs. Most of the original crew who helped get the park built.

Click here to learn more about the Valley Skatepark Association and see what future events and activities they have planned.

Modular skateparks consist of above ground prefabricated equipment usually made of steel, plastic or wood.

Well ten years later skateboarding is going strong and public skateparks are being built all over the country. Organizations like Nike, the Maloof Money Cup and the Street League are putting big money into skateboarding, and at the same time providing large amounts of money towards free public skateparks. On the same note, cities are not only building one or two public skateparks, but now developing master plans for entire skatepark systems.

The Flushing Queens skateplaza built for the Maloof Money Cup was donated to New York City after the contest. Photo: Daniel Avila.

Over the years more cities have realized that public skateparks are an important investment in our youth. As public skateparks evolve it’s very important for skaters and community leaders to see how they are built. Basically, asking the question, “What has worked and what has not worked?”

In the 1970′s, skateparks were built out of concrete, wood, steel and fiberglass. Obviously, you do not see too many public skateparks left over from the 70′s built of wood, steel or fiberglass. However, you do still see concrete parks that were built in the 70′s and still being used to this day. Throughout the eighties and nineties public skateparks were few and far between, but you still saw them being built of concrete.

The Derby Skatepark in Santa Cruz, CA was built in the 1970's and still remains skated until this day.

The skatepark in Santa Rosa, CA was built in 1994 and still remains an active skatepark.

At the end of the nineties, many states began passing laws to limit a city’s liability regarding public skateparks, and you started seeing pubic parks being built across the country. At this time, you saw the playground companies and other modular companies jump on the skatepark bandwagon. These companies produced skatepark equipment made out of steel, fiberglass, composite plastic and wood. This was the beginning of the mass production of clone like skateparks across the country.

At the end of the nineties this type of modular skatepark was not uncommon.

Since then a lot of things have changed. The use of building materials such as steel, wood and plastic have shown significant signs of failure. Plus the skatepark industry is now dominated by companies that pour concrete skateparks. The few modular vendors that are still in business also offer a concrete option.

The concrete skatepark in Cedar Park, TX shows the benefits of using dyed concrete and landscaping to add aesthetic appeal.

As modular skateparks deteriorate across the country we are finding that more cities are replacing them with concrete parks. In this article, we document those situations to try to encourage communities to build it right the first time, and not to waste taxpayer dollars on modular equipment.

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New Braunfels, TX

In 2004, the City of New Braunfels installed a steel modular skatepark. Over the years the modular skatepark showed signs of wear and tear, and had to be repaired a number of times.

The modular skateparks in New Braunfels was installed in 2004.

In 2006, local skateboarders were fed up with the poor condition of the modular park and began holding fundraisers for a new park. Three years later they raised enough money to build a 17,000 square foot concrete skatepark to replace the old modular park. The newly improved skatepark attracts users from around the state.

The state-of-the-art concrete skatepark was opened in 2009 to replace the aging modular park.

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Marble Falls, TX

In 2003, The Highland Lakes Skatepark Association began raising money to build a public skatepark in Marble Falls. In 2006, a temporary park was built with wood ramps including a quarterpipe, fun box and a bank ramp.

The Marble Falls skatepark installed in 2006.

After years of hard work The Highland Lakes Skatepark Association raised around a $100,000 to build a brand new concrete skatepark. They were also able to get plenty of in-kind donations to help cut costs. The contractor poured new concrete over the old existing slab creating a 12,000 square foot skatepark. The park has unique features such as the Parthenon Loop.

In 2010, Marble Falls replaced the old wood park with a new concrete park.

In 2011, the skatepark in Marble Falls was featured in Thrasher Magazine which is distributed internationally. Photo: Rhino

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Los Angeles, CA (Hollenbeck Park)

In 2002, the city installed a prefabricated skatepark in Hollenbeck Park. The skatepark was supervised, charged a fee and was surrounded by a fence. The skatepark featured your standard modular set up with bank ramps, fun boxes and quarterpipes.

The Hollenbeck Skatepark built in 2002.

When the ramps started to show signs of deterioration LA Parks and Rec. started kicking around ideas for a replacement until they where approached by skater/TV star Rob Dyrdek. The Rob Dyrdek Foundation was able to match funds provided by the city, and together they were able to build a 14,000 square foot skateplaza. In 2009, the plaza opened and was immediately a big hit. Plus the city removed the fence and skatepark fees to encourage usage. Today the Hollenbeck Skateplaza is featured in numerous skate videos and attracts skaters from around the world.

The Hollenbeck Skateplaza completed in 2009.

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Los Angeles, CA (Lincoln Park)

In 2002, the City of Los Angeles installed a modular park at Lincoln Park. The park featured a mini ramp, quarterpipes, bank ramps and a fun box. The skatepark was also fenced and required a fee.

The Lincoln Skatepark installed in 2002.

In 2011, the deteriorating ramps were replaced with the help of pro skater Paul Rodriguez Jr. The Paul Rodriguez Foundation, Nike SB and LA48 stepped in to help provide funding for the 9,000 square foot concrete skatepark. Legendary professional skater Lance Mountain stepped in to help design the facility which features some street plaza elements and a flowing snake run. Plus the fence was removed and the city stopped charging a fee.    Lincoln Park is actually the sixth skateplaza to be built in the city for the last two years. LA PARD currently has plans to build three more just like it.

The Lincoln Skatepark built in 2011.

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Tacoma, WA (Stewart Heights Park)

In 2004, a prefabricated skatepark was installed at Stewart Heights Park, (also known as “South 56th”), in Tacoma, WA. The park was installed by a local contractor and the problems were immediately apparent. Some of the abutting pyramid forms did not join correctly and some of the quarterpipes were positioned just behind large expansion joints in the slab. More serious problems emerged within the next two or three years as the top sheets, (Skatelite), began to trap moisture and warp. The moist wood then couldn’t hold the screws which began to back out. Although replacement sheets were installed, they too soon became distressed through ordinary wear and tear.

The prefab park at Stewart Heights park in Tacoma was built in 2004. The park was popular among skaters, but became difficult for the city to maintain.

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The Woodlands, TX (Forestgate Park)

In 2002, The Woodlands, TX   installed a steel prefab park at Forestgate Park. The equipment was poorly designed and began to rust within a few years.

Forestgate Park in 2008.

Questionable design features!

In 2011, the steel ramps were removed and a brand new concrete park was built upon the existing slab.  The new park was designed with input from the local skating community, and local skaters participated in the construction.

Designed and built by skaters instead of playground companies.

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The Woodlands, TX (Lakeside Park)

In 2002, The Woodlands, TX   installed a steel prefab park at Lakeside Park. The park featured a half pipe, a fly box, quarterpipes and banks. The park began to show signs of wear and tear a few years later, and the community began to take steps to replace the park.

Lakeside Park in 2008.

In 2011, the community removed the old equipment and hired a design/build skatepark contractor. The contractor met with the local skaters to get an idea of what features to replace the equipment with.

Meeting with the locals to get ideas for the new park.

The contractor was able to use the existing slab and build on top of it. All of the new features were built out of poured in place concrete. The new park totals 9,565 sq ft. and features a half pipe, a volcano, two different fun boxes and a taco shaped quarterpipe.

Lakeside Park in 2012.

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 Conroe, TX (Kasmiersky Park)

In 2001, the City of Conroe installed a large skatepark. The equipment was wood framed and layered with a polymer surface. The park was used for many years, but in 201o the city started taking steps to remove the park.

The Kasmiersky Skatepark built in 2001.

The problem with an outdoor wood framed park is that eventually it will start to rot. The rotting compounded with heavy usage creates a dangerous situation for users.

The rotting plywood surface at Kasmiersky Park.

The city held numerous meetings on building a new skatepark to replace the old one. The skaters and BMXers worked together on a design that would feature both street and bowl elements.

In 2011, the city began construction on a very ambitious skatepark design. The 15,000 sq ft. facility would include two bowls and a large street area. On top of that, the park would be done in dyed concrete and include art features.

On Dec. 17th 2011, the city opened the new skatepark. They moved the location in the park away from where the old park was located to provide more shade. Since the opening the park has been a huge success.

The Kasmiersky Park Grand Opening

An overview of the completed park.

A sculpted saw blade made out of concrete to pay homage to Conroe's timber industry.

Stay tuned for more parks added to this list…

The Victoria, TX skatepark brand new and ready to ride.

This photo shows gang graffiti on a telephone pole by the park.

Graffiti showing up in the bowl was a big problem.

Other problems arose when the city began to neglect the landscaping around the park. The grass had not been mowed for months and the it began to grow upwards of 2.5 – 3 ft. Plus the landscaping was not allowing the skatepark to drain properly creating  a breeding ground for mosquitoes in the non-drainable areas. Although the conditions of the park were bad, it did not seem to phase the local skaters. Unfortunately, most of the skaters were young teens who were not familiar with advocacy or opening the lines of communication with the local government.

The overgrown landscaping around the park greated severe drainage problems after heavy rains.

It took months of pestering the City Parks and Rec. Director, creating a Police endorsed skatepark community crime watch association, and meetings with the City Council members who would listen to reason, and by August 2010 I was able to get the City to start cleaning up the park. A spray paint removing solvent called Elephant Snot was used to  remove the graffiti in the skatepark. Plus the Parks Commission told the Director to start a scheduled maintenance of the park more regularly, and to communicate with me on how to work on improving this asset in the City’s best interest.

The city was able to trench out the area around the park and place drains to prevent flooding.

The city crews cleaning the graffiti out of the bowl.

Convincing the Parks Commission that the skatepark was one of the greatest assets to children and the community was not difficult.  The skatepark brings in a good amount of tourism from neighboring cities like Corpus Christi, San Antonio and Houston. Plus it gives our youth a positive outlet and a safe alternative from the streets.

A local Victoria skater skating the newly cleaned park.

Keeping the positive vibe going, getting the lines of communication open, and staying upbeat and gracious when working with all aspects of the City was key in changing the skatepark for the better. They remedied the cosmetic problems of proper landscaping for a safe environment, adding port-a-potties, repairing all the blown out lights, adding drainage in the low areas of the edges of the street section, adding a water fountain and adding proper signage and police and non emergency contact information. The skaters were blown away, and started writing thank you notes and their own comments in the newly installed comment box at the park. Out of town visitors even say hello on comment cards and leave them in the box, further giving evidence to the City that the skatepark is a tourist destination.

Something as simple as including a water fountain drastically improves the quality of the skatepark.

In August 2011, they installed canopies at the skatepark, a year earlier than the city budget approved for us! Also we have been able to receive wonderful support and increased maintenance from the Parks Director, who once was under the impression that the skaters were not utilizing the park nor cared for it.

Shade structures are a must in South Texas.

In June 2011, I was able to have the City and Mayor W. Armstrong proclaim every June 21st Go skateboarding day in Victoria, and we had a huge day full of free classes, food, contests and jams.

The mayor officials makes June 21st Go Skateboarding Day in Victoria.

This skatepark is now a gem in the City’s Parks, and monthly draws skate tourists from around the U.S. If you have any questions on how to win back your skatepark from crime, vandals, and litter, then post your questions on on the forum.

Words and Photos by Teresa Waters.

Come Skate!!!

In the last four years, four concrete skateparks have been built in Israel. That, in itself, is huge for our local scene. Even sweeter is that the parks have been contracted out to Grindline and that the most recently completed one in Kfar Saba was built by a Grindline-Dreamland cooperative effort that included Mark Hubbard, Mark Scott, Sage Bolyard, Tavita Scanlon, and Alfred Perez.

The Tel Aviv Skatepark built in 2007

The first two parks, in Tel Aviv (20,000 square feet; built summer 2007) and Zichron Yaakov (5,000 square feet; built summer 2008), have been resounding successes. These parks were designed by local shredder Avi Luzia and landscape architect, Kav Banof, with Wormhoudt Inc. taking part in the design of the Tel Aviv park; both were built by Grindline teams that included Mark Hubbard, Chad Vogt, Alfred Perez, Tony Moriana, and Greg Brandelli.

Avi Luzia blasting a frontside air in the Tel Aviv pool bowl.

Dozens of skaters hit up Tel Aviv’s park on the daily. The park includes a roomy street area, perimeter plaza, flow bowl, and 9 ft. amoeba pool, Israel’s first pool coping bowl. The Zichron Yaakov (pop. 17,000) park is a smaller park also designed by Luzia (in fact he has designed all four parks so far with more on the way!); relatively off the beaten path, the park has been called home by a nice group of locals, and the terrain is good mixture of quarterpipes, escalators, and a 7 foot flow bowl.

The Zichron Yaakov Park completed in 2008.

Since fall 2010, two parks have been built – one in the town of Herzliya, and the other set to open July 10, 2011, in the adjacent town of Kfar Saba. Herzliyya is a sprawling park with a sick flow bowl that includes an oververt pocket, a killer snake run, a buttery street area, a great plaza, and a nice beginner zone off on the side. Herzliya opened with much fanfare in March 2011. The GC for both of these projects was ER Itshaky.

The Herzliyya Park

The Kfar Saba Skatepark

From what I hear, this is only the beginning, with municipalities understanding that skateparks are very popular in Israel. They are also approached by skaters and their parents in their constituencies who wonder why they or their respective kids have to travel to other cities and towns to skate. Avi has played a major role in advocating for parks and assisting skaters with the process.

Avi Luzia takes a test ride in the newly built Kfar Saba Skatepark.

A last note: The Israeli skatepark scene is hugely indebted to Skaters for Public Skateparks. Many different people took part in the emergence of the skateparks here in Israel, too many to mention, and I’m sure I’d offend someone if I left them out. All along the way, there were questions that needed to be answered, and the SPS forum was always there with quick answers and support.

So here’s to you SPS, thanks!

Written by Elan Freedberg

About Elan: Elan grew up in Los Angeles, where he skated during his teen years. After moving to Israel, he began to advocate for public skateparks. He was active in the establishment of the Tel Aviv skatepark and his efforts brought about a skatepark in his hometown, Zichron Yaakov.

We got a hold of a local spray paint art legend named “Grave” who was into doin’ positive, permission mural pieces. He and his crew came up with a Seascape concept that we presented to the PARD folks and they gave it the green light. We purchased $1,000 worth of paint from money raised from a series of four skateboard contests.

We researched what kind of paint to use and how to do it. We would use 100% acrylic primer paint and top coat paint – mainly because it allows the concrete to “breath.” It was decided (with PARD) to coordinate the start of the mural project coinciding with a comprehensive skatepark cleanup/repair by the Parks folks. The skatepark was closed for 1-week, PARD staff power washed with a cleaner/degreaser and repaired any surface cracks with a hybridized Portland cement product that uses an acrylic admix (Ardex or Patchcrete is recommended). Then our graffiti crew brought in a guy who usually paints warehouses to spray on the primer coat with a 5 gallon pro paint sprayer provided by PARD.

After the primer coat went down, then we used a gradient-style, blue-to-white 100% acrylic top coat that would create the water look for the Seascape. After struggling to do “detail” work with the paint in buckets, the artists and EPSA traded in the un-used gallons for cases of spray paint – their more familiar medium. When the park re-opened with the mural still unfinished, we hung a sign indicating wet paint in the bowl when the artists were working on it. Skaters complied and did not skate the big bowl while it was wet and it dried up pretty fast to help ease safety concerns. After several weeks, the mural was done and was not tagged for over a year. It still goes un-tagged for the most part, and has greatly reduced the graffiti.

Words and photos by Paul Zimmerman.

The world we live in today is full of many challenges. We ask a lot of our community leaders, and they are forced into difficult decisions every day. Lets explore the opportunity to combine several unique challenges and deliver solutions that work for everyone.

We know that skateboarding is popular, and that skateparks are generally the most used areas of entire park systems. There are many examples of successful skateparks to learn from (and many more that fall short). The need for more quality skate terrain is well established.

We also hear every day about budget shortfalls across the board, and there is no relief on the immediate horizon. The standard cost for a 10,000 square foot skatepark often lies in the $350,000 range – which is simply unattainable for most communities currently.

Skateboarders learn the value of providing skate opportunities for themselves early on, often starting with driveway ramps all the way up to full blown concrete projects. This is where we combine the issues of a lack of suitable skate terrain, no available funding, and underutilized urban spaces to create facilities that everyone benefits from. There have been countless DIY (Do It Yourself) skatepark projects over the years, some more successful than others. Lets take a brief look at a few of them to see how we can apply their experiences towards a DIY skatepark in your town:

Burnside Skatepark

The Burnside Project began in 1990 under a bridge in Portland, Oregon. The rainy climate, lack of skate terrain available, and a motivated group of skateboarders led to the development of the first renegade DIY skatepark.

Like many bridges, the embankments underneath the Burnside bridge were neglected, and allowed to fall into disarray. The area was used for illegal dumping, illicit drug deals, and a transient camp. The skaters realized an opportunity to develop their skatepark. After massive amounts of clean up, concrete was poured at the base of the embankment, making it more conducive as skate terrain. Other features were constructed to compliment what had been built.

The skatepark continues to evolve, with some elements being modified or updated. However, to this day no public funds have ever went into the facility. A majority of the materials were literally donated one bag of concrete at a time. The parks department doesn’t include it as a sanctioned city park, but it does provide a trash dumpster and portable restroom.

The Burnside Skatepark. Photo: Kris Cass

FDR Skatepark

Downtown Philadelphia is home to Love Park, one of the most beloved environments for street skating we have ever known. Skating in Love Park was increasingly disallowed, and 1994 saw a 16,000 square foot skatepark built intended as a replacement in South Philly. While this represented the best of intentions, the elements provided proved to be inadequate almost immediately, and the skaters began work on improving the skatepark themselves.

Inspired by the precedent set by Burnside, elements were constructed to compliment each previous development. Other than the initial offering of the failed skatepark elements, $25,000 is the extent of the public funding that has went into the materials comprising the skatepark.

In 2005, FDR hosted the Gravity Games and was also featured in the video game Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground. The park features endless concrete speed lines, a mini ramp and a vert ramp. The park you see today was built with private donations and donated labor, and is much larger than the initial 16,000 sq ft. park provided by the city.

The FDR Skatepark

Marginal Way

In 2004, Seattle had two skateparks, both of which were scheduled to be replaced in new locations. The frustration caused by having two skateparks demolished drove some skaters under the HWY 99 viaduct south of downtown. Prior to its life as a thriving skatepark, this spot was used primarily for transients living in automobiles, much to the chagrin of the local businesses.

As each feature was implemented, the project became more popular not only with the skaters, but the community as a whole. In a rainy climate such as Seattle’s, the bridge provides welcome shelter. The short days of wintertime have inspired lighting to be installed. It continues to grow, with grassroots fundraisers covering all of the costs. It is estimated somewhere around $40,000 has went into this project, with 100% coming from the skaters themselves.

The Marginal Way Skatepark

Washington Street Vigilante Tranny

San Diego is a longtime hotbed of street skating, but over time the anti-skating ordinances continue to get stiffer, leaving some looking for alternatives. The construction of modest obstacles began under a bridge in 1999. Within a year, the authorities discovered the project, and shut it down. A non-profit was formed, land use permits, encroachment and removal permits, and construction insurance were obtained.

An engineering permit (at a cost of $2400) allowed construction to continue. The process of bringing the documentation up to the standards required by the City of San Diego took until 2001, after which the park was completed.

The Washington Street Skatepark

Kings Highway Vigilante Tranny

The entire midwest is largely devoid of quality skateparks: most of them are composed of modular playground equipment. The skaters in this part of the country tend to feel that the only way to acquire adequate skate terrain is to take matters into their own hands.

Underneath the Kings Highway viaduct in St Louis, MO is a vibrant DIY skatespot where only garbage once collected. When the director of the St Louis street department found out about the renegade concrete, he brought his sons down to ride the park. This project continues a model of fundraiser, concrete pour, fundraiser, concrete pour.

The Kingshighway Skatepark

The Coal Pad

Glacier, WA is a secluded mountain town, where there is a real need for projects like the Coal Pad. For the better part of 6 years, the local skaters involved constructed elements at a cautious pace. The spot was literally a coal pad, and has since been used exclusively as an illicit dump. All of the materials used have been recycled from what was found on site, which serves to clean up the area as well as limit costs.

An entrepreneur purchased the land at auction (without knowledge of the DIY project), and has worked with the skaters on donating the skatepark to the Coal Pad non-profit so the park can live on.

The Coal Pad Skatepark

Brooklyn Street Skatespot

Portland, OR is in the process of establishing a system of 19 skateparks. After completing five popular projects in this series, the allocated funding has been exhausted. In an underutilized space under a pedestrian bridge some neighborhood skaters added some concrete to the backside of a highway divider. Fortunate enough to have tremendous community support, this project has continued to grow. Somewhere in the neighborhood of $4,000 has went into this modest skatespot – a valuable addition to a skatepark system.

The Brooklyn Street Skate Spot

Bennett, Colorado Skatepark

Bennett is a small town east of Denver, which had a skatepark that had became decrepit over time. Members of the Colorado Coalition for Public Skateparks started on this project in 2006. This project differs from most DIY skatepark projects: it is “permission DIY” – rather than renegade. There are many parallels to the barn building parties of the frontier days, where the entire community contributes a structure for the good of all.

Grassroots fund raising paid almost entirely for the backyard style bowl, as well as replacement for some of the streetscape with better elements. An online fundraiser was also employed, resulting in skaters from CA, OR, WA, amongst other places, contributing significant funding for this project.

The Bennett Skatepark

The Channel Street Skatepark

In 2002, skaters in San Pedro, CA  started building under the 110 freeway at Channel Street. This was a result of getting no where working with the city in trying to get a legit park. Like most DIY projects it started small, so it wouldnt be noticed by Caltrans. As the project grew in popularity, it became accepted by the general public.

In 2004, the San Pedro Skatepark Association was formed and the park became official. Since then the locals have added on to the park tremendously. All of the work was completed by volunteers and donations  for materials were provided by skate companies and local contracting companies.

The Channel Street Skatepark

Kanis Park

In 1987, the City of Little Rock, Ark built a concrete bowl in Kanis Park. Although this old bowl does not have the smooth tranny and concrete quality that parks have today. The locals took ownership and this bowl has been a part of the Little Rock skate scene since the eighties.

In 2006, the locals took advantage of an underutilized concrete slab down the hill from the bowl. The skaters held fundraisers and collected materials such as rebar and coping. The park has become a mecca for skaters around the Southeast. Every year the locals hold the Kanis Bowl Bash to raise funds for more concrete. The slab at Kanis Park shows how an underutilized slab can be converted into a popular skatepark.

Kanis Park Concrete Pour