Friends of West Bend Skate Park evaluates new locations for upgraded facility

During a recent West Bend City Parks and Recreation meeting, significant discussions centered around the future of the West Bend Skate Park, highlighting its long and tumultuous history and the community's efforts to revitalize it.

The skate park, originally established in 2003 with equipment purchased for $80,000, has faced numerous relocations and challenges over the years. Initially situated in the YMCA parking lot, it was moved to Barton Park in 2009 due to issues with the YMCA. However, ongoing concerns from residents led to the park's closure in 2010, leaving the equipment in storage for over a year. Since then, the skate park has been located off Main Street, but it has not seen substantial improvements since 2014.

In 2023, community member Isaac Sharp raised concerns about the park's condition, prompting the formation of the Friends of West Bend Skate Park, a nonprofit aimed at advocating for a new facility. In 2024, this group generated a list of 23 potential sites for a new skate park, narrowing it down to six finalists, including locations at Regner Park and Badger Middle School. The group is currently exploring partnerships with local businesses to secure a suitable site.

Key considerations for the new skate park include visibility, safety, accessibility, and proximity to existing amenities. The proposed sites are being evaluated for their ability to accommodate a skate park of approximately 13,000 square feet, which is deemed necessary for the community's needs.

The meeting underscored the importance of community engagement in the planning process, as well as the need for a facility that can serve as a safe and accessible space for local youth. As discussions continue, the Friends of West Bend Skate Park remain hopeful about securing a new location and revitalizing the skateboarding community in West Bend.