Skateboarding is set to make its first appearance at the Tokyo Olympics in July. The popularity of skateboarding continues to grow and many cities and towns across the state of Maine have built skateparks to accommodate skateboarders, scooters, and BMX bikers as well. Gorham would like to join them in these efforts, and the Town Council unanimously agrees.
The idea for a skatepark in Gorham has been floated around for years, until a group of community members, led by Tom Dupuis, came together to advance the idea. Dupuis said given the growing popularity of the sport, the strong community interest as well as the activity happening in surrounding communities, this is the perfect time to move the project forward. The Project Team is made up of the following community members: Tom Dupuis, Project Community Lead: Emma Christakis, Project Management: Liam Nickerson, Community and Student Advocate: and James Rutherford, Site Selection Lead and Community Advocate.
The organizers envision a skatepark that is an inclusive place for youths and adults to exercise and enjoy the outdoors; is a perfect complement to team sports given the sport’s individual elements; and provides a safe outlet to learn risk-taking and social skills for youth. There will be no age limit for the skatepark. “We want the skatepark to appeal to a broad range of individuals from those who are just learning the sport to those who are much more advanced with their skills,” Dupuis shared. The skatepark will include a mix of novice to professional features to promote a culture of inclusion, diversity and growth in skills.
The group is in the early stages of design and has consulted multiple towns who have built or are in the process of building skateparks, including South Portland, Augusta and Windham. There is also a survey which is being used to get community input. It will remain open until June 30. The survey will be helpful in gathering information for the design of the specific park features, which will then be passed on to the skatepark design firm (to be hired). As this is a community skatepark, the group strongly encourages input on the design features, particularly from local skateboarders and scooter riders.
Photo submitted by Tom DupuisAccording to Dupuis, they have secured a private funding commitment up to $250,000 with the assumption that they can structure a private/public partnership with the Town. Currently, the group is working in partnership with Town staff experts; Ephrem Paraschak, Town Manager: Tom Poirier, Director of Community Development; Bob Burns, Director of Public Works; Cindy Hazelton, Director of Gorham Parks and Rec. Director; and Kevin Jensen, Economic Development Director. Upon completion of phase 1 and 2 of the skatepark, the proposal says to would be donated to the Town and a boosters club would be created to assist with the promotion and upkeep of the park.
The group is grateful for the community support. There are many hardworking people behind the scenes getting work done. The Gorham Conservation Commission, Gorham Village Alliance, Gorham Business Exchange, Gorham Economic Development Corporation, Gorham Outdoors and Gorham Sand & Gravel have all endorsed the idea of a skatepark as well. As one might expect, there is overwhelming interest amongst the Gorham student population with eight of of ten students responding to their survey as “very” or “extremely” excited about having a town skatepark.
While the location has not been chosen yet, a few sites given due diligence include Narragansett Elementary School, Robie Park, Gorham Middle School, and Little Falls Recreation area. Narragansett had the highest rating for the criteria the group is looking for to build the park. Superintendent Heather Perry said the Gorham School Department is fully supportive of the construction of a skatepark in the community. “We believe such a park would be a positive addition to the already excellent recreational opportunities our community and schools offer to our youth and young adults.” Perry feels the skatepark would encourage youth and young adults in the Gorham community to safely gather, to be physically active.
With approximately $175,000 needed, Dupuis said, “We anticipate doing a fundraising campaign to raise the balance needed to complete phases one and two of the skatepark.” The first two phases of the proposed project call for a 7,500-square-foot park that would be eventually expanded to 10,000 square feet.
For more about the skatepark or how to help, visit their Facebook page or email them at gorhamskatepark@gmail.com for more information.
Liam Nickerson, the Community and Student Advocate for the group shared, “Personally, I think a skatepark would benefit Gorham greatly, as it would provide a safe place for skateboarders, scooters, and bikers to do what they love, and to feel like they belong, bringing the community closer together. I love the idea of a new park to share with new skaters and see the individuality and uniqueness each one brings into our community.”