Friends of West Bend Skate Park advocate for concrete design over modular equipment

In the heart of West Bend City, a vibrant discussion unfolded at the Parks and Recreation meeting, focusing on the future of the local skate park. As community members gathered, the air buzzed with anticipation over the potential transformation of the skateboarding landscape in the area.

The conversation centered around two primary types of skate park equipment: modular and concrete. Currently, the skate park features modular equipment, which is metal and pre-made, offering limited selection and creativity. While modular setups are portable and cost-effective, they come with drawbacks, including lower durability and higher noise levels. Many skaters express a clear preference for concrete, which allows for more creative designs tailored to the land's topography.

Concrete skate parks, while more expensive and time-consuming to install, boast significant advantages. They are more durable, quieter, and require less maintenance, making them the favored choice among wheeled sports enthusiasts. The Friends of West Bend Skate Park have made it clear that their vision for the future is a concrete park, emphasizing the need for a facility that meets the community's desires.

As the discussion progressed, the financial implications of constructing a new skate park were laid out. Estimates suggest that concrete skate parks could cost between $50 and $75 per square foot. For a proposed 13,000 square foot park, this could mean a total investment ranging from $1.625 million, depending on various factors such as site preparation and additional amenities.

The meeting highlighted not only the technical aspects of skate park design but also the community's commitment to creating a space that reflects the needs and preferences of its users. As West Bend City looks toward the future, the vision for a concrete skate park stands as a testament to the community's dedication to fostering an inclusive and engaging environment for all.