I learned to skateboard in my early teens.  It was a great physical challenge but the only problem was that there wasn't many legitimate skateparks.  I took up other interests and ultimately moved to Vancouver.  I hadn't touched a skateboard for 15 years until the global pandemic came along.  My passion for skateboarding was reignited as it was something I could do outside while keeping physically distanced. I learned that the Vancouver skateboard community, young and old, is friendly, encouraging, responsible, and inclusive.  The skate community also helps keep the skateparks clean, smooth and free of debris.

I live in the DTES a block away from Oppenheimer park.  The park has been closed for a while now as the park recovers and the City helps the people that lived there find a more collaborative solution.  Every time I walk passed the park, I think about how great it would be for the community to bring this park back to life.  I envision a skatepark that would make the park a destination for locals and the whole City.  A great example is the Mount Pleasant skatepark which has operating hours and even hosts skateboarding lessons throughout the year.

Please help get the City's attention.