Renovations at Cristoforo Park are underway, with a $200,000 investment aimed at revitalizing the playground and potentially bringing back a long-missed skate park. The project, which began about a month ago, involves significant upgrades, including the removal of old playground structures and digging down 12 feet to prepare for new installations.

During the recent Narragansett Town Council meeting, Parks and Recreation Director highlighted the community's desire to restore the skate park, which had fallen into disrepair and was dismantled in 2019 due to safety concerns and vandalism. "Several families have reached out to me asking why we can't get the skate park back," he noted, emphasizing the importance of providing a safe space for children to engage in wheeled activities like skateboarding and biking.

The plan includes applying for a grant to fund the construction of a new skate park adjacent to the playground, with hopes of completing the project in phases. The first phase is already in motion, and if the grant is secured, the skate park could be built by April 2026.

Council members expressed enthusiasm for the project, suggesting that involving local youth in the design and upkeep of the park could foster a sense of ownership and responsibility. "This is your park," the director stated, encouraging kids to take pride in their space and collaborate on its maintenance.

Community members, including local skateboarders and industry professionals, voiced their support, stressing the need for a concrete surface to ensure durability and usability. They warned against using asphalt, which can deteriorate quickly and lead to safety issues.

As the town moves forward with these plans, the focus remains on creating a vibrant, safe environment for youth recreation, with the hope that the new skate park will not only serve as a place for fun but also as a hub for community engagement and creativity.