I am an enthusiastic skateboarder and so is my daughter, along with many of her friends. We all share a passionate love for skating, and living in the moment on our skateboards. Unfortunately, the closest skateboard park for us to enjoy this shared passion is an hour's drive away - a reality that leaves us and other local skating enthusiasts without a nearby, secure location to skate. Given the number of skateboarders in our area, our community is severely lacking in access to spaces dedicated to our sport.

It is crucial for us to have a designated and safe place where we can skate undisturbed and without disrupting others. When skateboarders do not have access to a skatepark, they are much more likely to seek out spots to skate “in the wild” which greatly increases the risk of vehicular collisions and property damage. Therefore, we are calling for the establishment of a Skateboard park in the Tappahannock area. This will not only cater to skateboarders but also to all individuals who indulge in similar sports such as scootering, bmx, and rollerblading. A place where people of all ages can gather, build community, and refine their skills in a safe environment.

According to the Skatepark Project, communities that invest in skateparks see a reduction in youth crime and an increase in physical activity among young people. Skateparks offer a unique environment where youths can experience freedom, mastery, and social interaction (Source: The Skatepark Project).

This is something our community urgently needs - a communal space that promotes physical activity, community building, and keeps our youth engaged in safe and productive pastimes.

Skateboarding brings people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities together.

Please sign our petition to establish this much-needed Skateboard park in Tappahannock. Let us create a safe, designated space for our passionate skaters to practice the activity they love, right in our own backyard.