Skateboard Park Proposed for Flint Park

by Judy Silberstein; photo by Dan Scheuer

(May 5, 2005) While two pocket parks are well on their way towards implementation after presentations to the Larchmont Village Board on May 2, a skateboard park that was also discussed at the meeting has a ways to go. (See: Neighbors Now in Accord on Plans for Two Pocket Parks) Two proponents of the skate park, Dominic Schmitt and Gracen Fraser, introduced the concept to the board.

However, Mayor Ken Bialo requested that they defer making a complete presentation of their plans to the Village Board and instead begin the process with the Recreation Committee. The mayor would like to hear that group’s recommendations before taking any further steps to consider the proposal.

Following the board meeting, the two shared more of their ideas. With the help of Vanessa Martelli, a park developer, the two have put together a detailed proposal. They suggest a site adjacent to the tennis courts in Flint Park and lay out a proposed landscape with ramps, quarter-pipes, rails and more to accommodate kids aged 8 to 18 on skateboards, inline skates, bikes and scooters. They’ve thought out issues of supervision, administration, maintenance, fundraising and long-term financial implications.

(Very) provisional cost estimates in the neighborhood of $200K suggest they’ll need a robust fundraising effort, but they’ve been circulating petitions and have gathered over 400 signatures from supporters – and potential donors.

Mr. Schmitt and Ms. Fraser explained how their efforts were motivated by the lack of a safe and sanctioned location where their own children and other young Larchmonters could enjoy their skateboards.

For years, local skaters have practiced their craft on school playgrounds and at commercial parking lots, but these are not legal sites. According to Joan Rosen, spokesperson for the Mamaroneck schools, official policy has never allowed skateboarding on school property. “Signs to that effect went up this year,” she reported. “I hope they find a place for they kids,” she said, “the playground is not the appropriate place to skate board.”

Proposal for a Skatepark

Another supporter for the park concept was Detective Bob Reynolds, the youth officer for the Town of Mamaroneck. “I hope they can get it done,” he said. “It would be good for the kids.” He confirmed that Town police have been asking boarders to leave the playground at Murray Avenue and Central School. However, “they do keep returning,” he reported.

Detective Barbara Daquino, the youth officer for the Village of Larchmont is also onboard. She reported that skateboarders “like to wax the wall at the bank on Chatsworth and Palmer. I think [the park] would be a lot safer,” she said.

“We’re trying to find a positive outlet for kids,” said Gracen Fraser, who admits being somewhat skeptical of skateboarding before her son took up the sport. “It’s not run by adults, it’s just play time.” Further, through boarding, her son is now in great shape, she reported. “They’re running and jumping all the time, “ she said.

However, as the two learned Monday, getting formal approval may take some time and is no sure bet.

For more information on the park: there’s an informational meeting at Harry’s Burritos (94 Chatsworth Ave) on Monday, May 9 at 4 pm. Or contact: skate10538@aol.com