Kids & Family

Two Skate Park Demonstrations Scheduled for Vernon

The committee behind the skate Park concept wants to showcase the sport.

Two skateboarding exhibitions have been scheduled by groups studying the concept of building a skate park in town.

Ideas regarding the potential construction of a skate park have been discussed at several meetings of the Rockville Community Alliance, which is working with local police, the Vernon Community Network and some town officials on the concept. The two events are designed to expose the general public to skateboarding in a designated, controlled area, said Thomas DiDio, a Town Council member and chairman of the RCA Skate Park Organizing Committee.

A quarterpipe is being set up at the annual Rockville fest, DiDio said, to showcase the tricks skateboarders can execute.

Rockville Fest is scheduled for on Saturday, Sept. 22, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The rain date is Sunday, Sept. 23, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

THe RCA, the police and the VCA are teaming up with the Northeast School PTO to present a "Skate Park Day" on Oct. 27 at the school, DiDio said. Local youths and their families are currently constructing elements to fashion into a simulated skate park, DiDio said.

The event will be an "all-day" affair with food, DiDio said. He added the particulars will be announced shortly.

The Skate Park Organizing Committee is exploring potential locations and will likely apply for non-profit status to seek grants - particularly federal - to pay for a skate park.

Many communities have embraced skate parks as a way to not only give young people a place to practice their skills but to keep them off the steps and railings of municipal buildings.

A fenced-in, safe environment has also been used as an argument for skate parks.

Last Vegas is one example. The city has several skate parks spread throughout its limits and they draw crowds of skaters daily. The parks make it unnecessary for young skaters to seek outlets on the steps of the crowded hotels on The Strip and the historic buildings Downtown.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here