Growing up in Davenport, Florida, many of us who are passionate about action sports like skateboarding, BMX, Roller skate and rollerblading find ourselves running out of options when it comes to safe, dedicated spaces to hone our skills. These sports not only promote physical fitness, creativity, and discipline, but they also provide a unique outlet for self-expression—a crucial element that team sports might not fully capture for everyone.

Unfortunately, the city of Davenport does not have a public skatepark. Without a proper facility, local skaters resort to using sidewalks, streets, and other public spaces, which not only endangers the skaters but also pedestrians and motorists. The absence of a sanctioned location for these activities limits our ability to train, improve, and gather as a community, leaving us feeling unrepresented and neglected.

A public skatepark in Davenport would encourage positive growth for young people, giving them a safe environment to develop their skills. Moreover, it would foster a stronger sense of community by bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds who share the same passion for skating and action sports. Skateparks are known to draw people of various ages and this could be an opportunity to bridge generational and cultural gaps.

Building a skatepark is a very achievable goal. By analyzing the success stories of similar towns across the United States, we can see that skateparks often lead to revitalization of public spaces and can even contribute positively to local tourism and business. According to the Tony Hawk Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by the professional skateboarder, towns with skateparks observe a significant increase in local business activity, and a decline in illicit activities that often occur in unmonitored public areas.

We are calling on the Davenport City Council to prioritize the installation of a public skatepark. Potential locations could be explored, budget estimates prepared, and funding sources identified, such as public-private partnerships or grants from organizations specializing in recreational infrastructure.

By signing this petition, you will support the creation of a skatepark that not only serves as a world-class venue but as a stepping stone towards greater community enrichment and opportunities for all who call Davenport home. Transforming our city with this asset would provide a legacy for future generations. Let's come together to make Davenport the thriving, inclusive, and active community it deserves to be.

Please sign this petition to show your support for a public skatepark in Davenport, Florida.