For many growing up in Mattoon and the surrounding areas, the skate park was more than just a place for recreation – it was a sanctuary, a community hub where friendships were forged and skills were honed. The memories many of us have of learning to skate, overcoming challenges, and spending countless hours with friends are invaluable.. When we heard that the City of Mattoon was interested in updating the Roundhouse Sports Complex, which includes our skate park, we immediately felt the need to take action. This is not just about adjusting a few ramps; it’s about ensuring the next generation of skaters have a safe, welcoming, and modern place to gather.

The City of Mattoon has recognized this need and is ready to take a significant step forward by applying for the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program for the fiscal year 2027. This grant is a golden opportunity to breathe new life into the Round House Sports Complex, which includes our beloved skate park. The grant will facilitate essential improvements that will elevate the park's standards, attract more visitors, and bolster our local community.

Concrete improvements will include expanding the park's existing features, ensuring they meet modern safety regulations, and introducing new elements that cater to a wider range of abilities and interests for people of all ages and skill levels. With better facilities, we can host more community events, attract regional skate competitions, and promote a healthier lifestyle among residents.

This project is not just an infrastructural enhancement; it's an investment in our community's future. By supporting the OSLAD application, we are ensuring that Mattoon's Round House Sports Complex can continue to serve as a cornerstone of community engagement and development. Importantly, improved facilities can positively impact local property values, increase tourism, and offer constructive activities for our youth.

We need your help to make this vision a reality. By signing this petition, you are advocating for a brighter future for Mattoon's current and future generations. Let us show our city officials and the State of Illinois that there is strong community support for this initiative and ensure that the necessary funding is secured.

Your signature is more than just a name; it’s a commitment to community growth and the empowerment of our town. Please sign this petition and help us take the first step towards a revitalized Round House Sports Complex. Together, we can make a lasting difference!