Boarders Will Skate Somewhere

I have been reading The Herald articles with great interest about the concerns of keeping the skateboard park. I do understand the concerns. However, I witnessed a significant decrease in skateboarding downtown after the skateboard park was established.

It was extremely intimidating to be on the sidewalks downtown with skateboarders using the sidewalks and performing various dangerous stunts on other objects—such as steps and even railings. Of course, a few skateboarders have still preferred downtown, but the park significantly reduced the number of them downtown. I do believe that if the skateboard park is discontinued, there will be increased use of downtown facilities by the skateboarders. This would again put the skateboarders and shoppers at great risk of serious physical injury.

Again, I do understand the concerns. Also, another issue was that the skateboard park is no longer used as much. However, I imagine the few who have been still using it, do appreciate having it available. Also, the park was built at a significant cost.

As an original supporter of the skateboard park, I had no personal interest in the project. I knew none of the skateboarders, but I knew they needed a place other than downtown to practice their skills.

Louise A. Sjobeck

Randolph

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