Skateboarding was enjoyed by over 10 million Americans in 2004, a rate that has remained relatively stable since 1987, when participation data first became available. Since 1973, when the urethane wheel was first produced, and the late 1950's, when the first kid nailed metal roller skate wheels to a 2x4, skateboarding itself has ridden a series of revolutionary waves that have pushed it further and further into our cultural and physical landscape.
 
Although Seattle has two skate parks (one in Ballard and one near Seattle Center) the demand is growing for more spaces, particularly for beginning skaters. Lower Woodland Park is expecting a skate park this summer and a group of skate park enthusiasts have built a DIY p! ark, with blessings from the Seattle Department of Transportation, near Marginal way. Now a group of boarders, community residents and artists wants to create the first ever art/skatepark in Seattle.
 
The I5 overpass at Ravenna has been a sore topic since it was built in the 1960's. It cuts off Greenlake from the Roosevelt neighborhoods, it is a magnet for abandoned vehicles, car campers and not a very pleasant or safe-feeling part of our community. Former King County Councilwoman Cynthia Sullivan set a plan in motion several years ago to beautify this area. Plans are now in place for public artwork along 65th under the freeway and talks are underway for a skatepark that incorporates the artwork, includes skatable art and an earth works garden.
 
Parents for Skateparks is a non profit organization that is hoping to gather community support for a park! in this integrated public space. The
organizers hope the park will bring people, both participants and spectators, to the newly created park. Having people in the newly created park makes the park safe and that feeling of safety allows more people to enjoy it.

Improving our existing public space will strengthen our community by providing additional recreational opportunities, decreasing crime, increasing art and aesthetics and making Roosevelt a strong destination for families in our truly urban village. These skateparks and others in Seattle's future will help provide relevant, alternative recreational opportunities for everyone.

For more information, contact Jennifer Keys at jenkeys@yahoo.com