2020 was an incredibly difficult year for so many. With mask mandates and social distancing regulations, people found themselves looking for ways to get outside and exercise that didn't involve large classes or crowds. This led to an increase in popularity of outdoor roller skating.

Knoxville is just one of the many cities around the country seeing an uptick in skaters around town. From mountain bike trails, greenways, climbing walls, and skate parks, Knoxville is a destination for so many. We would love to see an outdoor roller rink added to the offerings. It would be a great meeting place for roller skating, inline skating, roller hockey, and other outdoor recreational activities. The growing group of Knoxville skaters consists of school teachers and students, small business owners, real estate agents, professional photographers, and hospitality industry employees, just to name a few. Our unofficial meet ups have allowed for an increase in skill level and overall growth of the community. New friendships have formed and it has provided so many people with a way to get through this historically difficult time.

The idea for the outdoor rink is comprised of a simple smooth concrete surface. Ideally it would be some sort of open air pavilion with a roof so the area could be used during inclement weather. We would like to work with the city to see if our idea can be brought to fruition.  Visitors would provide their own skates and protection. We would work with fellow skaters to organize free beginner skate instruction. The rink would be available for other community events as well. We believe this could provide a space for community building events as well. This would be a minimal expense to provide a location that would bring joy to so many in our community.