Kansas City Welcomes New Skate Park Under the Buck O’Neil Bridge
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Exciting developments are underway in Kansas City as a brand new skate park is set to rise beneath the soon-to-be-completed Buck O’Neil Bridge. On the afternoon of October 23, skateboard enthusiasts and BMX riders gathered for a meeting that had them buzzing with excitement.
A Vision Comes to Life
With a skateboard propping open the door to the Mid-America Regional Council’s board room, vibes were positive as local skaters shared their hopes for the future skate park. “It’s sick. I think it’s really dope that we are having this meeting,” said Ryan Azevedo, an enthusiastic skater.
The new skate park, which is still in need of a catchy name, is planned to sit on the west side of the Buck O’Neil Bridge, just south of the Missouri River. This long-anticipated project could become a cherished spot for local riders, providing a dedicated space for this energetic community.
Innovative Design Plans
According to the design firm New Line SkateParks, the skate park will span an impressive 20,000 square feet. Plans include a mix of features like streets courses, plazas, half pipes, and bowls that all-wheel enthusiasts can enjoy. “Anything that I can go really high and blast and jump a hip, that’s what I like to ride,” shared BMX rider Woody Lowry.
What makes this project particularly exciting is the fact that it will give skaters a place to land their tricks instead of using streets, schools, and other urban spaces that aren’t designed for them. Ben Halvacek, president of MOKAN Skates, emphasizes the importance of having a dedicated skate park. “We’re tired of skating street spots everywhere. It gives us a better space to express ourselves,” he stated.
A Community Asset
Local leaders believe that this park could mirror the success of a brand-new skate park that opened in Lenexa last year. “It’s going to utilize a space that would typically just become kind of dilapidated, get dirty and messy. Instead, it’s going to make it into something really creative and beautiful,” said Price Kenney, a skate park advocate. The park aims to not only provide a recreational space but also to reduce unwanted activities that can occur in areas that lack engagement.
Funding and Future Steps
While the total cost of the skate park is yet to be finalized, Councilman Eric Bunch mentioned that approximately $1.3 million has been allocated from PIAC funds. “When we have people out skateboarding in a park like this under a bridge, it means there’s probably some of the unwanted activity not happening there,” he noted, highlighting the positive impact such community spaces can have.
Melissa Kozakiewicz, Kansas City’s Communications Director, stressed the importance of community involvement in shaping the park’s design. “We’re still in the very early stages of planning the skatepark. This meeting is an important step in gathering input from the community,” she explained, indicating the desire for feedback to guide the next steps.
How to Get Involved
For those who have ideas or suggestions for the skate park, an online survey is currently open, allowing the public to share their visions up until November 16. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape a future space that could positively impact the local skate community.
In conclusion, the new skate park beneath the Buck O’Neil Bridge promises to be a thrilling addition to Kansas City. As discussions continue and plans unfold, the local skate and BMX community eagerly anticipates the opening of a space where they can truly shine.
