Royalton skatepark will be more than a haven for skateboarders
Site will be open for bicyclists, roller bladers and walkers, too
Terry Lehrke
News Editor
While the discussion has been going on for several years about a skatepark for skate boarding enthusiasts in Royalton, walkers, bicyclists and roller bladers need a safe haven as well.
After choosing McGonagle Park as a location for a city skatepark, and meeting with area youths, Ron Verley and Jake Klosowski told the Royalton City Council that preliminary plans are in place and the next step is to raise funds.
The Council agreed to match any donation funding up to $15,000 over a period of three years, toward the project. The money will come out of the Parks Fund. Mayor Andrea Lauer discussed the matter with City Attorney Tom Wenner, who determined that this would be an appropriate use of the fund.
About $30,000 is needed to get the basic cement slab down and one centerpiece of equipment erected. If the city matches donations up to $15,000, at least that much must be raised.
During the discussion, Councilwoman Mary Gutzkow asked that a walking path be established and maintained by the city as well.
"It (the park) would benefit more than just skaters. The path used to be mowed, the trees trimmed and there were benches," she said. "At one time, there used to be a lot of people down there."
The skatepark group has already begun the fund-raising process. During the Platte River Day celebration in Royalton Aug. 1, the group was able to raise $836.
Verley said the group had plans to meet again to put together letters requesting donations. The letters will be sent to area businesses and organizations.
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