Brookings approves $315,000 skate park renovation after broad public input

The Brookings City Council approved Resolution 25-63 on the consent agenda to renovate Dwiggins Madari Skatepark, using $315,000 allocated in the city’s 2025 budget.

Parks staff told council the existing skate park dates to before 2000 and has seen little to no upgrades since it was built. “The project was purchased through the Sourcewell cooperative agreement, so it was competitively bid throughout that process and it's falling within budget,” Parks and Recreation staff member Kristen said.

City staff said the project design included community input: a design charrette that drew about 40–42 participants and two additional public feedback opportunities. The renovation will replace metal ramping with concrete features intended to lengthen useful life and create distinct areas for different skill levels; staff described a west-side area for higher-skill users and an east-side “street course” for entry-level users. The Brookings Public Arts Commission will contribute by repurposing used skate decks into park benches and commissioning local artwork for fixtures.

Officials said contractor availability will determine the exact timeline but expressed optimism that groundwork and concrete work could begin this fall, with completion expected in spring 2026. Staff cautioned the park would be unavailable to the public during construction but said they will attempt to minimize closures. Council members asked about long‑term maintenance; Kristen said concrete elements will be easier to maintain than older metal ramps and that parks staff plan to coordinate with user groups to support upkeep.

The consent motion passed by roll call during the consent agenda. The renovation is framed by staff as part of the city’s broader parks improvement program and an effort to provide youth and community recreation assets downtown.