Craig's Skatepark Alliance Proposes Concrete Skate Park at Laudie Simpson

The Moffat County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting held on June 11, 2025, featured a significant proposal from the Craig's Skatepark Alliance (CSA) advocating for the development of a concrete skate park at Laudie Simpson. The initiative aims to create a world-class destination that serves as a positive outlet for local youth and visitors, promoting outdoor activity, community engagement, and long-term residency in the area.

The proposal, presented by a representative of CSA, outlined the initial steps toward establishing a partnership agreement with the county, which includes pledging land at Laudie Simpson for the skate park. The CSA emphasized that securing land is crucial for moving forward with funding applications and community support. They estimate that the planning phase will require between $250,000 to $300,000, with the overall project budget projected to reach between $2 million to $3 million once construction begins.

The CSA plans to collaborate with the Community Foundation of Northwest Colorado as their fiscal sponsor during the planning phase and intends to work with Moffat County Development Services for the construction phase. The organization aims to manage all aspects of the project, including planning, fundraising, and contractor selection, ensuring a high-quality facility that aligns with community values.

The representative highlighted that Moffat County is one of the few areas in Colorado lacking a public skate park, with only 25% of municipalities currently without one. This presents a unique opportunity for grant funding, particularly as the county is classified as a tier 1 underserved rural coal transition community. The CSA also noted the popularity of skate parks in enhancing local economies and community cohesion.

In discussing the proposed location, the CSA identified a decommissioned softball field at Laudie Simpson as the ideal site due to its existing infrastructure, including parking and restrooms. They emphasized that the concrete design of the skate park would provide a durable and low-maintenance facility, suitable for the local climate.

The proposal also included plans for thematic terrain features that reflect the region's agricultural and mining heritage, aiming to create an engaging and educational experience for users. The CSA expressed confidence in the project, citing successful examples from other municipalities, and underscored the importance of community support and engagement in the planning process.

The meeting concluded with the CSA expressing gratitude for the commissioners' consideration and a desire to further discuss the details of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to formalize the partnership. The board's response and any subsequent actions regarding the proposal will be closely monitored by the community as they await further developments.