As a parent, I am invested in the safety and well being of our local youth. For over 20 years, Dow James Skatepark has provided a healthy outlet and a sense of belonging for adults, kids and teens in Tooele. It has become a second home for many. A place to build skills, friendships, confidence, and positive habits.

Unfortunately, the lack of adequate lighting limits how long the park can be safely used, especially during the darker fall and winter months. As soon as the sun sets, skaters are forced to leave early due to poor visibility and safety concerns, even though the park itself remains a positive, well used space.

The shorter days of fall and winter can also affect mental health. Many youth experience increased stress, isolation, and seasonal depression during these months. Having safe opportunities to get outside, stay active, and connect with others can play an important role in supporting physical and emotional well being. Extending access to the skatepark gives kids a healthy reason to stay engaged and active when it matters most.

The solution is simple and practical: installing cost effective, energy efficient lighting. Options such as LED fixtures, timers, or motion activated lights could extend usable hours into the early evening while keeping costs and energy use low. This small improvement would allow youth to continue skating safely after school or work and make better use of an existing community resource.

Well lit recreational spaces are known to reduce vandalism, increase park usage, and improve the overall sense of safety for nearby residents. More importantly, they help keep young people engaged in healthy, productive activities rather than drifting toward less positive alternatives.

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference with a modest investment. Supporting the health, safety, and well being of youth strengthens families and helps build a more connected, resilient community.

Please consider joining us in supporting the addition of lighting at Dow James Skatepark so it can continue serving Tooele's youth safely throughout the year.