Just in time for International Go Skateboarding Day, city council will discuss the possibility of building more skateboard parks today.
Ald. Joe Connelly has put forward a notice of motion for administration to talk to Calgarians about a comprehensive skateboard park strategy.
With only one stationary skateboard park in a city of one million people, Calgary logically needs more boarding options, said engineer and longtime skateboarder Eric Allen. “They need to be spread throughout the city.”
According to The Calgary Association of Skateboard Enthusiasts, there are an estimated 30,000 boarders in Calgary, many of whom have limited access to the centrally located Millennium Park.
“It would be nice to have a park closer to home,” said BMXer Andy Jackson. Community skateboard parks would mean more people could try the sports, he said.
Skateboarding is a popular summer activity, but many don’t want to put their boards away once the temperature drops. Skateboarders are often limited to smaller spaces in garages and basements in winter.
“I think what’s really needed is an indoor skate park,” said Allen. “It can be done year-round.”
Skateboarder John, last name withheld, said he does not believe the city will support building new parks. “People wrongly think a lot of crime happens here,” he said.
“But we just want to board.”
