Final designs, $1.5–$1.8 million estimate and fundraising plan presented for Joe Reardon Skate Park

Matt Williams, a resident of Troy and longtime skateboarder, presented final designs and community survey results for the proposed Joe Reardon Skate Park to the City of Troy Board of Park Commissioners on Feb. 4.

Williams said the volunteer group Troy City Skatepark United conducted a public survey that drew 247 responses and helped shape the design. He told the board the skatepark-only elements are estimated to cost between $1,500,000 and $1,800,000. “Really, the fundraising is going to amp up from here. I mean, as of right now, we have right around $49,000,” Williams said. He also said the group became a nonprofit in 2024 and covered the cost of a geotechnical soil study.

The design presented condenses three pump tracks into a single two-lane pump track for small competitions, adds a mini ramp with a bold corner, and provides a continuous walking path around the park perimeter. Williams said the final plan separates the skatepark-specific work (the portion Troy City Skatepark United is raising funds for) from the city’s likely scope, which would include restrooms, shelters, parking, site lighting and non‑specialty site furnishings.

Board members and staff discussed next steps and integration with city planning. A board member said the project should be connected to the city’s upcoming parks and recreation master and strategic planning process so consultants can review the skatepark data and public feedback. Jeremy Drake (staff member) and other commissioners noted budgeting and a multi-year build plan would likely be needed; staff indicated the city would consider how to phase specialty and nonspecialty work across its capital planning horizon.

Williams and Platform Group, the skatepark designer referenced in the presentation, emphasized aesthetics and multiuse features intended to serve skateboarders, BMX riders, scooter and rollerblading users, and the broader community. Williams said common survey requests included bathrooms, seating and preserving trees; the team added seating, a proposed bathroom plaza and trail connectivity to reflect that input.

Williams described the design’s funding and schedule outlook: fundraising will accelerate, and the group expects to pursue donations, grants and partnerships while coordinating with city staff on timing and permitting. There was no formal vote on the skatepark design at this meeting.

The board encouraged continued coordination, noted opportunities to include the skatepark conversation in forthcoming public outreach for the parks master plan, and invited Williams and his group to participate in future focus groups and community meetings.

The presentation materials and survey results were provided to staff and will be available for review as the project advances.