Thirteen-year-old Brannon Muller has one goal before he’s out of high school – to put his board to the test at the proposed new skatepark in Oliver.
The avid skateboarder expressed this view during a meeting with Parks and Recreation manager Carol Sheridan last week.
Sheridan invited local youth to the existing skatepark to discuss fundraising ideas for an upgraded facility.
Many youth feel the archaic concrete structure has lost its user-friendly appeal and is actually hazardous to skate on, especially the half-pipe.
“That half-pipe is like a death trap, no, seriously,” said Muller.
The skater said he would like to see the park changed, more “rideable” and user friendly.
Muller said there isn’t much for youth to do in Oliver, especially at his age. He noted the skatepark keeps kids off the street and out of trouble. He admitted that some people yell at him for skating on their property.
The current skatepark was built by the community 15 years ago. It was great at the time, but some of its features have worn out their welcome and have become hazardous.
Newline Skateparks have come up with some design options to give the Oliver facility a facelift of fun. Some options are pricey, but Sheridan said they can do a lot for $50,000.
Much of the money will have to come from fundraising, which the youth are prepared to tackle.
Muller said they could contact skateboard shops to donate money. Another idea is hosting a skateboarding competition, he pointed out.
Although not finalized in the budget, Sheridan said Parks and Recreation could match the funds raised by the youth.
She encouraged local skaters to form a committee and work on a presentation to promote the upgrade.
“Don’t be afraid to dream big,” said Jesse McKinnon, a skater and teacher at Southern Okanagan Secondary School.
McKinnon has been skating since age 13 and gave the youth some ideas on how to raise money. He also said this project is something the kids can put on their resume to show the business community their drive and initiative.
The hope was expressed that local businesses will get involved in the upgrade in some way.
Lyonel Doherty
Oliver Chronicle
