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Residents push for concrete skate-park upgrade; staff outlines grant opportunities
Summary
Residents asked the board to pursue a permanent concrete skate park to replace modular ramps; parks staff said conceptual design and grant-seeking (including accessibility grants) are next steps and that the town aims to explore options in upcoming budget cycles.
Several residents, including Robert Moore, urged the board Aug. 4 to pursue a redesign of Kernersville's skate park into a concrete plaza-style facility that would be lower maintenance and more inclusive.
"We would love to talk to you more about possibly looking at renovating our skate park," Moore told aldermen, describing safety concerns with aging modular ramps and citing newer concrete parks in nearby communities. Parks & Recreation staff said the town has discussed converting the modular surface to a concrete plaza for years and that the 30-year perpetuity clause on some earlier LWCF funds is approaching expiration, which could clear the way for redesign without federal re-approval.
Ernie, the Parks & Rec representative, said staff are exploring conceptual drawings and grant avenues — including accessibility grants that could help make a plaza-style design all-ability accessible — and will solicit public input from current users during design. Staff noted a few spot repairs have been made and that a full concrete replacement would reduce ongoing maintenance but require capital funding; the board acknowledged the request and directed staff to continue concept work and outreach as they plan future budget cycles.
Residents and staff emphasized giving skaters and families opportunities for input in the concept phase and looking for funding partnerships before making a formal budget request.
