Astoria Skatepark holds a special place in our hearts as one of New York City's oldest and most cherished skateparks. Over the years, it has fostered an incredible community of skaters from several generations and even produced a handful of professional skateboarders. However, a significant issue has been affecting this vibrant community: the lack of proper lighting, making the skatepark dangerous to use after dark. This limitation greatly impacts the skaters, reducing their time to practice and limiting options for recreation, exercise, and community building.

In contrast, the adjacent track and field benefit from excellent lighting, which extends their use into the night and supports soccer games, jogging, and other community activities. It's disappointing that Astoria Skatepark hasn't received the same consideration, despite its established, responsible, and engaged community. Skaters deserve to enjoy their beloved park throughout its full hours of operation, just like others do in nearby facilities.

Installing adequate lighting would not only enhance safety but also bring numerous benefits to the neighborhood. More consistent use of the park could lead to increased community engagement, reduced crime by having more eyes on the area, and it would reinforce Astoria Skatepark as a hub for healthy activities for everyone.

Verifiable evidence shows that well-lit recreational areas contribute to decreased crime and increased community interaction. According to studies published by organizations such as the National Recreation and Park Association, adequate lighting significantly reduces nighttime crime in parks and public spaces.

We urge the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation to allocate resources for lighting installations at Astoria Skatepark. This is an investment in community safety, well-being, and the future of NYC's skating culture. Local skaters, families, and residents deserve to feel safe in their park and have the opportunity to partake in skateboarding during evening hours, fostering a more inclusive and accessible public space.

By signing this petition, you are supporting a vital change to keep Astoria Skatepark safe, welcoming, and active for years to come. Please add your voice to this important cause and help us bring necessary lighting to Astoria Skatepark. Join us in making a difference for our community!