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5 PresentationProposedSkateParkCffYOF 690 Cig Center Drive, PO Box 147 Chanhassen. Mi,nesota 55317 ?ho~e 612.937.1900 General £ax 612.937.5739 £,gineeri~g Fax' 612.937.9152 ?ublic Safe7 £ax 612.934.2524 l.t~b a,~,u: d. cha,hasse~. ,m. m MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: DATE: SUB J: Park & Recreation Commission Todd Hoffman, Park & Recreation Director July 20, 1999 Presentation of Proposed Skate Park Plan On June 21, 1999, City Manager Botcher forwarded a memorandum to my attention outlining the issues he would like addressed concerning the proposed skate park. The following report and attachments represents my findings. mo Bo Ce A basic design of the proposed skate park should be developed. Obviously the design will give you some indication as to whether or not we have the space available to construct a skate park and has an impact on the indirect and direct costs such a skate park might generate. A proposal from True Ride dated July 9, 1999 is attached. The proposal covers design, warranty, insurance, terms, and delivery should the city wish to move forward. A computer image depicting a proposed Phase I and Phase II plan is shown. The area required to accommodate both phases is less than 100 ft. x 200 ft., or half of the total asphalt pad area constructed at City Center Park. The pad was designed to accommodate two full sized hockey rinks. In the event that permanent dasher boards are utilized, the skate park can operate inside the boards. See Attachment A for proposal. A complete cost analysis, including construction and annual maintenance costs, should be made part of your analysis. The cost for Phase I is quoted at $14,781.75 complete. The estimated usable life of this equipment is ten years. Over that period of time, the Skate Lite surface would need to be replaced two times at a cost of $6,000 if both Phase I and Phase II are installed. As we discussed, please make sure that you have a place in mind to store the apparatus when the hockey rink is in use. Storage options are limited to the Lake Ann Park pole shed or outside storage at Lake Ann Park. Interior storage is preferred; however, outside storage does not affect the life span of this equipment. Other options for storage that were investigated included the lower level of the new water tower #3 and Park & Recreation Commission July 20, 1999 Page 2 De to storage at the Public Works building. Please remember that the Lake Ann Park pole shed will be demolished in 2000 or 2001 in order to accommodate the construction of West 78th Street. If your plan is to spend $15,000 and no more, thus eliminating the necessity for raising private funds, then please state so. If your plan is to accept contributions, you may wish to discuss how the contributions will be solicited, where they will be deposited, and how they would be spent. As I have said many times in the past, I do not believe it is the city's job or staff's job to be in the fundraising business. Therefore, this Ad Hoc Focus Group should be in a position to provide us with some good data insofar as the potential availability of private dollars for these purposes. The proposal from True Ride is based upon an initial investment of $15,000. It is my position that a total project budget of $30,000 would satisfy the needs of most recreational users and keep their interest. ! agree that it is not the city's or staff's job to perform a fundraiser to finance the additional proposed $15,000 investment. Viable sources of additional funds include an outside fundraising effort by interested users or a future Park and Trail Acquisition & Development Capital Improvement Budget. As I have said before, I personally doubt how much use a skate park will receive. Ultimately, as you said, it is up to the council to decide whether or not they believe the expenditure of $15,000 is in the best interests of the City of Chanhassen. But from my perspective, some documentation indicating level of use and level of interest in a community would be useful and may help provide some support for those interested in seeing such a project built. The following documentation is included in Attachment No. 2. 1. Letters of support from members of the community. Daily user counts at True Ride's 1998 portable skate park in Robbinsdale, St. Louis Park, Crystal, Golden Valley and Maple Grove (a fee based facility). 3. Bumsville Skate Park, Inc., Packet. Park & Recreation Commission July 20, 1999 Page 3 4. Compilation of various trade articles concerning the benefits of skate parks. A quick analysis of the potential costs per visit follows: Initial Investment Ten Year Estimated Maintenance Costs Total $15,000 $ 3,000 $18,000 180 days of operation per year x 10 years = 1,800 x 30 skaters per day = 54,000 user visits $18,000 + 54,000 user visits = $.33 per visit Investment of Ten Year Estimated Maintenance Costs Total $30,000 $ 6,000 $36,000 $36,000 + 54,000 user visits -- $.66 per visit I would also like to note that the City of Shorewood opened a $30,000 skate park a few weeks ago. The park is free of charge and is attracting approximately 50 users every day. The average length of stay per visit is 1 to 2 hours (some skaters stay up to 6 hours per visit). Shorewood plans on installing a skate park in eight of its parks. Finally, please make contact with our insurance carrier and get in writing from them a position as to the exposure and potential liability that owning and operating a skate park will encumber upon the ciD' and our carrier. Please clarify whether this project will increase our property/casualty rates. I contacted Mr. Bob Bourbonaise of Dollifflnsurance by phone. In our phone conversation, Mr. Bourbonaise stated that skate parks are becoming commonplace in municipal and public settings and that the construction of such a facility would not affect our insurance rates. I followed up our phone conversation with a written letter. Mr. Bourbonaise suggested that I contact William Hendricks, Senior Risk Control consultant at the St. Paul Companies. Mr. Hendricks confirmed that municipal skate parks are becoming a standard facility in recreation systems. Mr. Hendricks forwarded a technical bulletin regarding skateboard facilities. The report includes types of skateboard parks, injury statistics, consideration in planning and designing a skate park, Park & Recreation Commission July 20, 1999 Page 4 estimated installation costs, and a St. Paul Public Sector Services loss control recommendation. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Park & Recreation Commission recommend the city council authorize the purchase of a Chanhassen Skate Park Phase I from True Ride at a cost of $14,781.75. Furthermore, it is recommended that $15,000 be included in the 2000 Park & Trail Acquisition and Development Capital Improvement Program for purchase of Phase II of the Chanhassen skate park. g:\park\th\skatepark\skate park prc7-27-99.doc · Skate Park Design & Construction · Worldwide Events July 9, 1999 Todd Hoffman City of Chanhassen 690 City Center Drive Chanhassen, MN 55317 RECEIVED JUL 1 g 1999 CITY OF CH^NH^SSEN Dear Todd, Thank you for giving TrueRide the opportunity to work with you and the City of Chanhassen on your skate park project. Working off the budget that we discussed, I have put together a proposal for TrueRide Inc. to build you a high quality outdoor Tier One Skate Park. This bid includes delivery and installation of the equipment to your site. I have included a 3D AutoCAD drawing of the layout with Phase 1 shown in blue and Phase 2 shown in red. I have also included a reference list as well as skate park projects that we have executed around the world. I encourage you to contact anyone listed. Design: TrueRide i.s dedicated t9 building state of the art .skate park equipment that is safe, durable, and fun to ride. Our equipment is over-built to eliminate failure and ensure s.af_ety. W.e b~iJ.d 9.ur r.a.,mps Jn _6' .s99.tiorts .u_,sing on. ly high .q_u.3!Jty .rn~,t.erj.a.!.s .to in.cr.e.a.s.e th_e overall longevity of each attraction. Final skating surface, Skatelite. Warranty2 TrueRide Inc. offers a one-year warranty on all products from the date of completion. Insurance: TrueRide Inc. carries product liability insurance of 1 million dollars. TrueRide Inc. requires 50% down payment to begin Remainder due within 15 days from the date of completion. construction of equipment. Delivery: TrueRide Inc. w/Il deliver and assemble all equipment at your skate park location. Truelxidc Inc. ° 5781 BcrcltdSt 1,,d. · I)tdud~, NIN ~58()4 ' 218-525-2625 ° f}zx _18-'),')-_8')0 * w',vw, trucridc.com TrueRide Inc. Skate Park Bid for the City of Chanhassen Phase 1 1. One 3' Tall x 18' Wide Wedge 2. One 3' Tall x 18' Wide Quarter Pipe 3. One 1'6" x 8' Wide Tall Hot Box 4. One 3' Tall x 12' Wide Spine Delivery and Installation $3,889.00 $3,632.25 $1,850.50 $2,760.00 $2,650.00 Total: $14,781.75 Phase 2 1. One 3' Tall x 24' Wide Mini Ramp Deli,very and Installation $11,992.50 $2,325.00 Total: $14,317.50 Please contact me if you have any questions. Sincerely, Dave Benson CFO TmeRide Inc. TrueRide Inc. is dedicated to building safe solidramps that are true to rider. TrueRide Inc. Equipment Construction Resume Lake In The Hills - Lake In The Hills, Illinois Skate Park Design, Construction and Installation Sun and Ski Sports - San Antonio, Texas 4' Half Pipe and Hot Box - Design, Construction and Installation City of Maple Grove - Maple Grove, Minnesota TrueRide Mobile Skate Park - Design, Construction, Installation and Operation City of Shoreview - Shoreview, Minnesota Skate Park Design, Construction and Installation Town of Seymour - Seymour, Connecticut Skate Park Design, Construction and Installation ESPN Xtrials - Louisville, Kentucky & Richmond, Virghfia 1999 Skateboard Street Course Design, Construction and Installation Club Med- Port St. Lucie, Florida Skate Park Design, Construction and Installation United States Government - Yokota Air Force Base, Japan Skate Park Design, Construction and Installation Ramp-N-Roll Skate Park - Warner Robins, Georgia 12'Half Pit,e, Beef Box, Pyramid- Design, Construction and Installation City of Lawrence - Lawrence, Kansas 5' Half Pipe Design, Construction and Installation City ofNorthfield - Northfield, Minnesota Skate Park Design, Construction and Installation City of Toledo - Toledo, Ohio 6' Half Pipe Design, Construction and Installation TmeRide Portable Skate Park Program Skate Park Design, Construction, Installation and Operation City of Robbinsdale, Minnesota City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota City of Golden Valley, Minnesota City of Crystal, Minnesota City of Maple Grove, Minnesota Pepsi, Mountain Dew National Sales Conference - Kona, Hawaii Street Course Equipment Design, Construction and Installation Jolm Rose Oval - Roseville, Minnesota Skate Park Design, Construction and Installation Rollerblade, Inc.- Minneapolis, Minnesota Test Facility Skate Park Design and Construction Blade School University Equipment Design and Construction Ultimate In-Line Challenge Equipment design and Construction Blade dam Equipment Design and Construction Camp Rollerblade Equipment Design and Construction TrueRide Inc. is dedicated to building safe, solid equipment that is true to ride! Jerry Haffeman TrueRide Inc. Clients/References City of Shoreview, MN, Park & Rec. Director 651-490-4751 Eric Razskazoff City of Roseville, MN, Skate Park Director 651-415-2138 Rick Jacobson City of Golden Valley, MN, Park & Rec. Director 612-512-2345 Mark Saari City of Maple Grove, MN, Superintendent or Rec. 612-494-6212 Doug Langefels City of St. Louis Park, MN, Park & Rec. Director 612-924-2542 Randy Distad City of Northfield, MN, Director of Park & Rec. 507-645-3046 Sue Lamanen City of Toledo, OH, Park & Rec. Director 419-936-2874 Lee Hartley Rollerblade, Inc. Director of Marketing 612-930-7899 Mike Willemin 3D Exhibits, Inc. Senior Vice President 800-759-8888 Barbra Cohen Ramp-N-Roll Skate Park, Owner 912-329-8787 Gayla Carrigan Yokota, Japan. United States A ir Force 011-81-3117559949 Fred DeVictor City of Lawrence, KA, Park & Rec. Director 758-832-3451 Sylvio de Bortoli Club Med, Regional Director of Operations 561-398-5001 Karina MacLaren Sun and Ski Sports, General Manager 210-494-0429 John O'Toole Town of Seymour, First Selectman 203-888-2511 [ ·, Full, Warranty TrueRide Inc. products are warranted for one year from date of purchase. TrueRide Inc. will repair, without charge, any defects due to faulty materials or workmanship. This warranty does not apply where repairs have been made or attempted by others not affiliated with or authorized by TrueRide Inc. Repair required by normal ware, neglect, abuse, accident, use of products for other than the intended purpose, and acts of Nature or God are not warranted. This warranty does not apply when the suggested maintenance is neglected by purchaser in a way that diminishes the integrity of the product. The warranty is also void if products are assembled or disassembled improperly by purchaser. This warranty gives the purchaser specific legal rights which may vary from state to state. This warranty is not transferable to another party if equipment is sold by the original .purchaser. Eaui }ment Construction Suecification ] Transitions: Transitions are framed with ~A" Marine Tec treated plywood. Transitions are assembled using 2x6 ACQ pressure treated lumber spaced 8" on center. 3" exterior course screws are used for assembly of structure. Transitions sheeted with two layers of ½" ACQ pressure treated plywood, fastened with 2"coarse thread exterior screws. Liquid Nail exterior construction adhesive is applied on studs to adhere to plywood. Galvanized ½" carriage bolts, nuts, and washers are used to fasten units together. Tarpaper vapor barrier stapled to surface before application of Skatelite. Final surface layer is ¼" Skatelite Pro fastened with 2" exterior course screws. Banks: Banks are framed with 3A" Marine Tec treated plywood. Banks are assembled using 2x6 ACQ pressure treated lumber spaced 8" on center. 3" exterior course screws are used for assembly of structure. Banks are sheeted with 3A" Marine Tec treated plywood, fastened with 2" exterior course screws, Liquid Nail exterior construction adhesive is applied on studs to adhere to plywood. Galvanized ½" carriage bolts, nuts, and washers are used to fasten units together. Tarpaper vapor barrier stapled to surface before application of Skatelite. Final surface layer is ¼" Skatelite or Skatelite Pro fastened with 2" exterior course screws. Decks: Decks are framed with 2x6 ACQ pressure treated lumber. Decks are sheeted with 3A" Marine Tec treated plywood, fastened with 2" exterior coarse screws. 3" exterior course screws are used for assembly of structure. Decks are secured to structure with 31/2" Galvanized lag screws. Decks supported with 4x4 pressure treated posts. Secured with Galvanized ½" carriage bolts, nuts, and washers. Tarpaper vapor barrier stapled to surface before application of Skatelite. Final surface layer is 'A" Skatelite or Skatelite Pro fastened with 2" exterior course screws. Railings: Railing height 42" above deck. 6' maximum railing span. 6" maximum horizontal space. Railings are framed with 2x6 ACQ pressure treated lumber. 31/2" Galvanized lag screws are used for assembly of structure Coping: Schedule 40, 2 ½" diameter black pipe. 2"x 2" square tubular steel. 31/2" rectangular steel. Joints are welded and ground smooth. Fastened to ramp every 24" with #12 31/2" stainless steel sheet metal screws. Thresholds: 3/8" Steel thresholds from 16"- 22" widths are used at the bottom of each ramp. Fastened to ramp every 24" with 21/2" #12 stainless steel sheet metal screws. RECEIVED MAR 2 9 1999 ~/a Cct'Ce\y ) I want a sl~tcpark mailbox:/C%7C/Progmm%20F'fl~/Na...7210752.12459.qmail@ hotmail.com&number= 18 Subject: I want a skatepark Date: Sat, 27 Mar 1999 13:07:51 PST From: "michael allen" <billyboppert~hotmail.com> To: chpkdir~ ci.chanhassen.mn.us I think chanhassen needs a skatepark if you don't get one we'll just skate in your city and you don't want that I know tons of people that want a skatepark we are desperate their are no places to skate Get Your Private, Free Ema±l at http://~,~.ho~ma~l com Mr. Todd Hoffman: Recently I was informed that the city of Chanhassen was considering building a public facility for in-line skating and skateboarding. I believe that it is only fair that this facility would be made. I believe this because the city supports other sports. The city builds tennis courts, basketball courts, beaches, and baseball fields for people to play their sport. In-line skating is my sport and I believe it is only fair to build a facility for people who participate in in-line skating or skateboarding. On April 11, 1999 Four Down Skatepark in Plymouth (one of the two local facilities for these sports) will be closing because of lack of funds. This leaves many kids with no place to in-line skate or skateboard. When a city does not provide a facility like this tbr people to use people are forced to the streets to skate. When people are forced to the streets to skate, this creates problems with business owners and the police. We are not out to cause problems, we are just out enjoy our sport. Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. I and many other skaters look forward to hearing soon that a skatepark will be opening in Chanhassen. Sincerely, Chris Bassett 110 Shasta Cir. W. (470-5413) Chanhassen JUN 1 5 ]999 CITY O~ u~HASSE~ May 18, 1999 Park and Recreation Commission City of Chanhassen 690 City Center Drive Chanhassen, MN 55317 Dear Sir or Madam: My name is Matt Lohman and I am a 15-year-old s 'kateboarder who has recently moved into this area. I understand that the city of Chanhassen is in the process of planning a skatepark. I concur with this proposal and have included fairly decent s -katepark plans which can lower the overall cost of the park. It is my hope that you find these plans useful. Sincerely, Matt Lohman Enclosure RECEIVED ~¥ 21 1999 CiTY OF CHANHASSEN Design sn~oothness of Surface-.....- '. · ' Edges tha~' Grind."' ' ' ' "i. '.. ~........., - .' .-- - -. - ::.-----.:,,-:~.:,:..'..-:...,~, .:~.;.'.v:;.:-z-':~. -,,..'.~.: .,...:,; Z, FiatbottOm .... .Any skate~rk design must have a minimum of 10 feet of flatbottom between obstacles and opposing transition. Skateboarders generate speed by pumping up and down the transitionk and can carry speed br ~crtstances across fiat, smooth concrete. Maximum flatbottom. allo' ~re skateboarders to skate simultaneously and avoid colli- sions...¢covery from the last trick and set-up for the next is made eas- ier when one can adjt~ stance or line across the fiat. No design should have two opposing walls where a skater can fall from one wall and slarninto the other. Not being able to roll or run out of a bail can mean tl~ diffenmce between a sc. raped elbow and a trip to the hospital. ~ Transition Tra .nsi. 'tion between'flatbottom and inclined surfa'ces can be accom- plished with either of two designs: round with a perfect radius curve like a swimming pool, or banked with a tighter transition curve-to a fiat bevel like a modified drainage ditch· Height of the wall to ~he top of the lip may determine the measure of these tran- sitionx, but the angle should be no more than 50'. A small, round transition wall, no more than 4 feet high would be skateable with a 5-7 foot round radius, wh~e a taller, round transition wall would call for a larger r~dius of maybe 6-9 feet. - . · . Lips, Edges, and Coping 'The edges or any wall, bank or skatepark pool must be hard and llrindable. Skaters are looking for something to grind or slide on when Ihey get ~o the top of a wall You can't be on the edge if there is no edge. A slightly protruding lip edge allows a skater to know ex~,cfly where they're at by feel. A round, metal coping edge (mini- mulm 2~/~ outside diameter, steel pipe) that sticks out slightly. grinds well and protects the cement edge from wear.~A big, round edge at the top of a wall or bank is useless and considered boring ~ Curbs, Blocks, steps,:and Walls Everyday street elements su~ as these can and should be included in m,"'-u ~katepark d~si~n. Curbs. blocks and steps function best in ap~ nation when judiciously used in combination with other ele- meres, such as a carb at the top ora banked wail. Another idea is to creaIe a street area away from any bowls and banks, or incor- porate blocks and steps into the. surrounding boundary land- sr-a. pln,c of the parle on which skaters can either sit or skate. - -: ' ' '""' ~o'~1 gove~m~'nts b'es!eg~'d by th~' ~ii~eraii'On ?.Lof~ Skateboarders have been trying.to address £heneed for public facilities intended for the sole use of skaieboarders. Cities and counties with'no ' ~'' experience'.in building "public skatepa~ks" ha~e taken. '" the e.xpedient route by building copies of earlier pub-. lic parks (most of which were total failures), or hiring architectural firms with little or no experience in skatep~l/design. : · The ];~toz~l 'Note: B~ no me~ h ~ the ult~n-te lo~ g~e~en~ m wo~ ~ ~d ~te ~e ~ ~e ~* ~o ~ ~ p~, get p~ ~d nev~ s~te ~e~ ~ove ~ese pages ~d b~g ~em to yo~ ne~ to~ meeting. Be s~e to ~end photo~ and ~recflon~ dollars. Although the amount of mone. y spent may vary, the quality of the skating experi- " ence will always be high if the proper design is executed. Our design is based on ".': a plot ofland less than the size of four tennis · ~ ;. :~ .courts and targets cities that want a permanent ~khtepark design in this.· facility that offers a safe and cre- W*modern era* is not rocket ative environment for skaters of science and designs mhy be very' all levels. We present this design successful in various sizes with- because we feel ·most cities will in available terrain. A properly have this type of investment in designed park would be safe and mind, the plans could be changed challenging for both beginner to accommodate smaller budgets. and expert. Skateboarding is a Cha, nges to the design should be creative sport, ever evolving, as considered by a group of skate- its practitioners create new boarders who are really the only moves or execute old ones in ones who can assess impact on new terrain, the overall park. . . The challenge of building a Thrasher highly commends the successful skatepark is in building cities and counties who have built a facility that allows the beginner parks. Many communities set to take up the sport and learn its out with the noble goal of provid- intricacies, but remains provoca- lng a good place for kids to skate tire for veterans. Skateparks have and have fun, only to discover generally been built with the idea that greedy so-called *skatepark that very radical haphazard struc- designers~ took most of the funds tures are somehow challenging to in fees and proceeded to design skateboarders. Nothing could be facilities that skaters deemed further from the truth, but this unskateable. We hope that our attitude may have developed from plans serve as a take-off point for people seeing urban skaters per-, a new era of public skateboard form tricks on what the parks which will be functional, unschooled perceive to be a total- easily built, and long-lasting. ly radical structure. However, At one time skaters had trou- skaters do not skate unskateable ble convincing their cities t~ terrain. They view all concrete, build skateparks, procure the asphalt, bricks, and the like land and appropriate funding. through different eyes: the simple Cities ha~e finally responded and curve inaramp suddenly are building facilities for skate- becomes a perfect transition; the boarders, but the problem is that stair railing a perfect sliding sur- many are so poorly designed as face; the simple cement block a to be dangerous, unfunctional, great grinding platform, and, in the end, no fun to skate. Modern skatepark design is Pumping. or gyrating between . then really a~¢mixture of the urban two oppbsing walls, is the basis environment and the suggestions for what skatepark design is all of skateboarders. It emphatically about. Recreating the basic is not the crazy, mogul-like fan- shapes that skaters find in empty tasies of desk-bound architects, swimming pools, drainage ditch- Skateparks are not like ballparks es, and on the street is the reason or courts that have set rules for building skateparks. Trying to regarding dimensions and play- invent new, untried skate terrain ing surface. We can, however, has never worked. The snakerun create skateparks within a bud- concept with round edges and no get that varies from hundreds of flatbottom was a surfer's fantasy dollars to hundreds of thousands that didn't work twenty-five years of dollars without wasting tax ago and still doesn't work today. Wake up and smell the concrete. RYAN D. RING 6441 Pleasant Park Drive Chanhassen MN 55317 Phone: (612) 470-9781 RECE E i FEB ,1 0 1999 CITY OF CHANHASSEt~ ~Vmy~r lqancy Mancino Chan~r. sen City Hall 690 City Center Drive Ch~nha~.~ ~ 55317 Dear Mayor:. Mymme is Ryan Ring. I am 14 years old and a student at Minnetonka High School, even though I live in Chaahassen. I'm miring this letter to try to start an indoor skate park in Chanhassen. A skate park is a place ,'here rollerbladers, skateboarders, and BMX bikers can go to do tricks. This project would have many improvements to the conununity; here's some examples: l. Skaters would have a place to go skate other than business property. 2. It would keep kids offthe street and give them sometking to do. 'There obviously are problems, though; most of all funding. This is what drives most cities from tiffs project. I laavcsome solutions though. One of them is sponsorship from a company. I've already contacted Rollerblade, but tdon'tknow how this works or if it's even possible. Another solution is donations from various places; maybe a church ora local organization. l~olle~lading, skateboarding and biking aren't necessarily team sports, so parental support compared to a sport like football is less. Perhaps the skate park could have a free competition every Saturday that parents could come lo watch The competition would be really light and not so stressing. We could also make tapes of the competitions that could be sold later; this would produce some extra revenues. It'wmfld be nice to have a free public park, but that's a lot to ask for, so we would need some ways to produce extra :money. We could charge skaters $6 admission, and offer a membership of $60 to $70 per year where they would gel in ~or half pric, e. Safety is a major issue too. The skate park would definitely require a helmet, but whether we require any more !ILan that, I don't know. Well, there are definitely too man3' details to express here on paper. All I ask is that you keep an open mind about ~hk if you could contact me, if possible, at the address and phone number above, I would be obliged. Tlmnkyoa. ~'mmrely 3~ur% 'P,.3mn ~SnS CITY OF September 8, 1997 Mr. Andrew Spevacek 6474 Murray Hill Road Excelsior, MN 55331 Dear Andrew: Thank you for the letter regarding your interest in seeing that a BMX track is built in Chanhassen. Biking tracks have been a topic of conversation among our Park and Recreation Cormnission members in the past. This Commission is a seven member group ,of local residents who advise the City Council on issues pertaining to parks and recreation. I xvill submit your inquiry to them on September 23, 1997. Upon printing the Commission's agenda for that evening, I will mail you a copy. I encourage you to attend lhis meeting to discuss your idea with the Commission. Approximately one year ago, a small group of high school students approached the Commission on a similar issue, an aggressive skate park. Today, plans are being made to construct such a facility at City Center Park. Again, thm~ you for your letter of inquiry. If you are able, please attend the Park and Recreation Commission meeting on the 23rd of September. The meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. and is held at Chanhassen City Hall in the Council Chambers. You are also free to contact me byphone at 937-1900 ext. 121 to discuss your idea. Sincerely, Todd Hoffinan Park and Recreation Director Don Ashworth, City Manager City Council (~) Dear City Planer, First off I thank you for taking your time to read my letter. And now the point. A few days ago my mother told me about all the new land you had bought on & ! thought maybe you could develop part of that land in this way. My idea was to build a BMX Track somewhat like the one in Maple Plane. Encase you don't know what a BMX Track is it's a dirt track with jumps for bicycles that are like Mountain Bikes except they have no gears, one handle break & are shorter. You might have seen kid riding bikes like that. 1. I think this track will benefit kids & adults because... 2. It's closer for both kids & adults. 3. Adults don't have take so much time driving there & back & it would be more convenient so adults don't have to plan out all that time driving. 4. Chanhassen has a lot of kids in it's area & I bet most of those kids own a BMX Bike or.know what one is or they have a bike that they could ride on the track. 5. ! know that kids & adults both are into BMX racing, jumping & tricks so this track would be a lot of fun for a lot of people. I would appreciate if you would consider my idea & please wright back 'with your comments or ideas. I'm also sending some track designs I thought of. Thanks again. Sincerely, Andrew Spevacek Phone: 470-9697 Address: 6474 Murray Hill Rd. Excelsior, MN 55331 TrueRide Portable Skate Park 1998 Robbinsdale 5/30 - 6/28 433 signed waivers Date Wristbands Sold Wristbands @ $8 Coupons @ $6.50 Total 5130 56 51 = $408.00 5 = $32.50 $440.50 5/31 79 75 = $600.00 4 = $26.00 $626.00 6/1 12 12 = $96.00 0 $96.00 6/2 30 27 = $216.00 3 = $19.50 $235.50 6/3 38 31 = $248.00 7 = $45.50 $293.50 6/4 59 53 = $424.00 6 = $39.00 $463.00 6/5 36 36 = $288.00 6 = $39.00 $327.00 6/6 34 32 = $256.00 2 = $13.00 $269.00 6/7 36 35 = $280.00 1 = $6.50 $286.50 6/8 39 26 = $208.00 13 = $84.50 $292.50 619 0 0 0 0 6/10 25 20 = $160.00 5 = $32.50 $192.50 6/11 30 27 = $216.00 3 = $19.50 $235.50 6/12 0 0 0 0 6/13 31 30 = $240.00 1 = $6.50 $246.50 6/14 24 17 = $136.00 7 = $45.50 $181.50 6/15 22 20 = $160.00 2 = $13.00 $173.00 6/16 18 13 = $104.00 5 = $32.50 $136.50 6/17 21 15 = $120.00 6 = $39.00 $159.00 6/18 11 11 = $88.00 0 $88.00 6/19 5 4 = $24.00 1 = $6.50 $30.50 6/20 0 0 0 0 621 21 18 = $144.00 3 = $19.50 $163.50 6/__ 16 16 = $128.00 ·0 $128.00 6/23 i8 18 = $144.00 0 $144.00 6/24 I0 10 = $80.00 0 $80.00 6/25 17 15 = $120.00 2 = $13.00 $133.00 6/26 14 13 = $104.00 1 = $6.50 $110.50 6/27 0 0 0 0 6/28 23 21 = $168.00 2: $13.00 ,181.00 Totals 725 $5160.00 $552.50 $5712.50 Average over 30 days is 24 skaters per day. Biggest day, 79 skaters. TrueRide Portable Skate Park 1998 St. Date Louis Park 6/6- 7/5 Wristbands Sold Wristbands @ $8 6/6 .45 32 = $256.00 6/7 31 29 = $232.00 6/8 19 17 = $136.00 6/9 58 48 = $480.00 6/I0 45 38 = $304.00 6/11 66 58 = $46a.03 6/12 54 50 = $400.03 6/13 33 31 = $248.03 ' 6/14 32 31 = $248.03 6/15 28 27 = $216.03 6/16 46 41 = $328.03 6/17 34 31 = $248.00 6/18 48 42 = $336.03 6/19 34 31 = $248.00 6/20 62 52 = $416.03 621 19 18 = $144.03 6/22 37 30 = $240.03 6/23 49 44 = $352.00 6/24 48 44 = $352.00 6/25 67 65 = $520.03 6/26 63 62 = $496.03 6/27 27 27 = $216.00 6/28 43 42 = $336.03 6/29 56 50 = $400.03 6/30 64 61 = $488.03 7/I 60 54 = $432.03 7/2 75 69 = $552.03 7/3 89 88 = $704.03 7/4 15 15 = $120.03 7/5 40 39 = $312.00 Totals 1387 $10,128.00 728 Signed Waivers Coupons @ $6.50 Total 13 = $84.50 $340.5O 2 = $13.03 $245.00 2 = $13.03 $149.03 10 = $65.03 $545.00 7 = $45.50 $349.50 8 = $52.03 $516.03 4 = $26.00 $426.00 2 = $13.03 $261.00 1 = $6.50 $254.50 I = $6.50 $222.50 5 = $32.50 $360.50 3 = $19.50 $267.50 6 = $39.03 $375.03 3 = $19.50 $267.50 10 = $65.03 $481.03 I = $6.50 $150.50 7 = $45.50 $285.50 5 = $32.50 $384.50 4 = $26.03 $378.03 2 = $13.03 $533.03 1 = $6.50 $502.50 0 $216.00 I = $6.50 $342.50 6 = $39.03 $439.00 3 = $19.50 $507.50 6 = $39.03 $471.03 6 = $39.03 $591.00 I = $6.50 $710.50 .0 $120.00 i = $6.50 $318.50 $786.50 $10,914.50 Average over 30 days is 47.1 skaters per day Biggest day, 91 skaters TrueRide Portable Skate Park 1998 Crystal 7/3 - 8/2/98 Date Wristbands Sold Wristbands @ $8 7/3 7 7 = $56.00 7/4 0 0 7/5 8 7 = $56.00 7/6 16 16 = $128.00 7/7 13 10 = $80.00 7/8 26 24 = $192..00 7/9 11 I0 = $80.00 7/10 17 14 = $112.00 7/11 18 17 = $136.00 7/12 '7 7 = $56.00 7/13 3 3 = $24.00 7/14 0 0 7/15 0 0 7/16 13 13 = $104.00. 7/17 15 15 = $120.00 7/18 24 17 = $136.00 7/19 9 8 = $64.00 7/20 0 0 7/21 13 13 = $104.00 7/22 25 ~ = $200.00 7/2.3 13 12 = $96.00 7/24 13 13 = $104.00 7/25 18 18 = $144.00 7/26 12 12 = $96.00 7/27 9 8 = $64.00 7;28 7 4 = $32.00 7/29 14 11 = $88.00 7/30 18 15 = $120.00 7/31 12 12 = $96.00 8/1 0 0 8/2 14 I0 = $80.00 Tom!s 355 $2568.00 Coupons @ $6.50 BMX @ $12 Total 0 0 $56.00 0 0 0 I = $6.50 0 $62.50 0 0 $128.00 1 = $6.50 2 = $24.00 $110.50 2 = $13.00 0 $205.00 I = $6.50 3 = $36.00 $122.50 I = $6.50 2 = $24.00 $142.50 I = $6.50 0 $142.50 0 0 $56.00 0 0 $24.00 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ' 0 $104.00 0 0 $120.00 7 = $45.50 0 $181.50 I -- $6.50 0 $70.50 0 0 0 0 0 , $104.00 0 0 $200.00 1 = $6.50 0 $102.50 0 0 $104.00 0 0 $144.00 0 0 $96.00 1 = $6.50 0 $70.50 1 = $6..50 2 = $24.00 $62.50 0 3 = $36.00 $124.00 0 3 = $36.00 $156.00 0 0 $96.00 0 0 0 2=$13.00 2=$24.00 $117.00 $130.00 $204.00 $2958.00 Average over 30 days is 11.8 skaters per day Biggest day, 26 skaters TrueRide Portable Skate Park 1998 Golden Valley 7/10- 8/9/98 496 signed waivers Date Wristbands Sold Wristbands @ $8 Coupons @ $6.50 7/10 33 33 = $264.00 0 7/11 49 46 = $368.00 3 = $19.50 7/12 8 8 = $64.00 0 7/13 13 12 = $96.00 1 = $6.50 7/14 28 ~ = $224.00 0 7/15 27 26 = $208.00 1 = $6.50 7/16 30 27 = $216.00 3 = $19.50 7/17 23 ~-3 = $184.00 0 7/18 17 17 = $136.00 0 7/19 25 24 = $192.00 1 = $6.50 7/20 23 19 = $152.00 4 = $26.00 7/21 ~ 26 = $208.00 2 = $13.00 7/22 79 79 = $632.00 0 7/23 47 44 = $352.00 7 = $45.50 7/24 ~ 22 = $176.00 3 = $19.50 7/25 34 32 = $256.00 2 = $13.00 7/26 48 44 = $352.00 4 = $26.00 7/27 22 21 = $168.00 I = $6.50 7/28 ~ 25 = $200.00 0 7/29 36 34 = $272.00 2 = $13.00 7/30 18 16 = $128.00 2 = $13.00 7/31 29 29 = $232.00 0 8/1 32 32 = $256.00 0 8/2 6 5 = $40.00 1 = $6.50 8/3 0 0 0 8/4 0 .0 0 8/5 14 I 1 = $88.00 3 = $36.00 8/6 26 24 = $192.00 2 = $13.00 8/7 0 0 0 8/8 23 23 = $184.00 0 8/9 16 14 = $112.00 2 = $13.00 Totals 784 $5952.00 $286.00 Average over 30 days is 26.1 skaters per day Biggest day, 79 skaters Total $264.00 $387.50 $64.00 $I02.50 $224.00 $214.50 $~5.50 3184.00 $136.00 $19'8.50 $178.00 $'"21.00 $632.00 $397.50 $195.00 $269.0O $378.00 $174.50 $200:0O $285.00 $141.00 $232.00 $256. O0 0 0 $124.00 $205.0O 0 $184.00 $2~.00 $6238.00 TrueRide Portable Skate Park 1998 Maple Grove 8/7 - 9/7/98 signed waivers Date Wristbands Sold Wristbands @ $8 Coupons @ $6.50 Total 8/7 0 0 0 8/8 68 68 = $544.00 0 8/9 39 37 = $296.00 2 = $13.00 8/I0 83 76 = $608.00 7 = $45.50 8/I1 91 86 = $688.00 5 = $32.50 8/12 80 74 = $592.00 6 = $39.00 8/13 72 67 = $536.00 . 5 = $32.50 8/14 76 66 = $53.00 10 = $65.00 8/15 76 70 = $560.00 6 = $39.00 8/16 36 36 = $288.00 0 8/17 71 64 = $512.00 7 = $45.50 8/18 61 57 = $456.00 4 = $26.00 8/19 6a 61 = $488.00 3 = $19.50 8/20 49 45 = $360.00 4 = $26.00 8/21 80 73 = $584.00 7 = $45.50 8/'~'~ '~'~ '~'~ - $176.00 0 8/Z3 32 26 = $208.00 6 = $39.00 8/24 54 52 = $416.00 2 = $13.00 8/25 0 0 0 8/26 76 68 = $544.00 8 = $52.00 8/27 60 53 = $424.00 7 = $45.50 8/28 44 42 = $336.00 2 = $ 13.00 8/29 50 48 = $384.00 2 = $13.00 8/30 35 35 = $280.00 0 8/31 99 93 = $744.00 6 = $39.00 9/1 83 82 = $656.00 I = $6.50 9/2 ~ 22 = $176.00 l = $6.50 9/3 17 16 = $128.00 1 = $6.50 9/4 27 24 = $192..00 '3 = $19.50 '9/5 81 78 = $624.00 3 = $19.50 9/6 37 37 = $296.00 0 Totals 1686 $12,624.00 $702.00 0 $544.00 $309.00 $653.5o $720.50 $63 !.00 $568.50 $593.0o $599.0o $288.0o $557.50 $482.00 $507.50 $386.00 $629.50 $176.00 $247.00 $429.00 0 $596.OO $469.50 $349.00 $397.00 $280.00 $783.00 $662.50 $182.50 $134.50 $211.50 $643.50 $296.00 $13,326.00 Average over 30 days is 56.2 skaters per day Biggest day, 99 skaters Hours of Operation May Day(s)~Time(s) Sessions Monday- Friday Saturday Sunday Blue 3:00pm - 5:30pm 10:00am - 12:30pm Red 5:30pm - 8:00pm 12:30pm - 3:00pm 12:00 noon - 3:00pm Orange 3:00pm - 5:30pm 3:00pm - 6:00pm Gray 5:30pm - 8:00pm 6:00pm - 8:00pm June, July, August Day(s)~Time(s) Sessions Monday- Friday Saturday Sunday Blue 9:00am - 12:00 noon 9:00am - 12:00 noon Red 12:00 noon - 3:00pm 12:00 noon - 3:00pm 12:00 noon - 3:00pm Orange 3:00pm - 6:00pm 3:00pm - 6:00pm 3:00pm - 6:00pm Gray 6:00pm - 9:00pm 6:00pm - 9:00pm 6:00pm - 9:00pm September Day(s)~Time(s) Sessions Monday - Friday Saturday Sunday Blue 3:00pm - 5:30pm 10:00am - 12:30pm Red 5:30pm - 8:00pm 12:30pm - 3:00pm 12:00 noon - 3:00pm Orange 3:00pm - 5:30pm 3:00pm - 6:00pm Gray 5:30pm - 8:00pm 6:00pm - 8:00pm Park may be closed due to inclement weather. Please call 895-4662 if weather looks questionable. II I Fees Season Pass 10 - Punch Admission Card Daily* $180.00 $45.00 $6.00 20 oz Bottle of Pop/All Sport 20 oz Bottle of Water Candy Skate Board Rental In-Line Skate Rental Protective Helmet Knee Pads Elbow Pads Wrist Guards Protective Equipment Package (helmet, elbow, knee pads and wrist guards) $1.00 $1.00 $0.65 $3.00 $3.00 $2.00 $1.00 $1.00 $1.00 $2.00 *Includes Protective Equipment All facility users must wear approved protective equipment to include: approved helmet, kneepads, elbow pads, wrist guards. Burnsville Skate Park reserves the right to deny entrance and or use of the park to anyone without proper protective equipment. Protective equipment must be worn at all times by everyone.., no exceptions. You will be asked to leave the park if you are not wearing your equipment and will not be given a refund. I Equipment Dimensions Equipment Pyramid ¼ Bowl Small Start Ramp Large Start Ramp Double Start Ramp Wide Start Ramp Fun Box Roller Small Hand Rail Large Hand Rail Half- Pipe Large Wedge Small Wedge Mini Ramp w\spine End Ramp Height 5' 5'4" 4'1" 5' 2'7" 2'7" 1'7" 3' 4'6" 6'1" 10'3" 4'2" 2'7" 7'6" 6'3" Rain Check Policy The Burnsville Skate Park reserves the right to stop the session during rain and~or inclement weather. We will give rain checks for a session if the session is less than half over. Under no circumstances will a cash refund be issued. Thanks! Registration Card Name: Address: City: Home Phone: Emergency Contact: State~ip: Work Phone: Phone: Please be sure to read both sides The Bumsville Skate Park is scheduled to open on June 18th for the 1999 season. The Bumsville Skate Park is located in Civic Center Park between 130th and 134m on Civic Center Parkway. All participants will be required to sign a waiver form and parents or guardians must sign for participants under the age 18. The park is staffed by two employees at all times. Please call the Burnsville Skate Park at 612-895-4662 for more information. Everyone using the park must wear Helmets, Knee Pads, Elbow Pads, and Wrist Guards. Daily sessions will be as follows: June 18th - September 6th Monday-Sunday 11:00am - 1:30pm 1:30pm- 4:00pm 4:00pm- 6:30pm 6:30pm - 9:00pm September 7th - October 31s' Monday - Thursday Friday Saturday- Sunday Closed 3:00pm- 5:30pm 5:30pm- 8:00pm 12:30pm- 3:00pm 5:30pm- 8:00pm Rates Daily Admission * $6.00 Season Pass $180.00 1 O-Admission Pass $45.00 · Includes Protective Equipment Rental Equipment Skate Board Rental In-Line Rental Protective Helmet Knee Pads Elbow Pads Wrist Guards $3.00 $3.00 $2.00 $I.00 $1.00 $1.00 SKATE PARK RULES Skating is restricted to the skating areas. All skaters must have a registration card. All skaters must wear the following protective equipment: a helmet, elbow and knee pads, wrist guards and appropriate footwear. o All protective gear and equipment must be designed for skateboard\in-line skating and be in good condition. The Burnsville Skate Park reserves the right to refuse to allow anyone to skate if their protective gear and equipment are not adequate. All skaters agree to act in an orderly, safe and considerate manner while on the premises and in the skating area. No "snaking." Everyone is to wait his or her turn. Reckless or dangerous skaters will be requested to leave the skating area and the premises immediately. o All injuries, whether major or minor in nature, are to be reported to the management immediately. In the case of a serious injury, do not move the injured person and all skating on that ramp shall cease immediately. 8. Only one skateboarder is permitted on a board at a time. No bicycles, roller skates, alcohol, tobacco products or drugs are permitted in this facility. 10. No Food or drink in the skating area. BURNSVILLE SKATE PARK Acknowledgment and Acceptance of Risks and Indemnity Agreement This document affects your legal rights. You must read and understand it before initializing and signing it. PLEASE PRINT LEGIBLY!! WE NEED TO BE ABLE TO READ IT!! Last name: First Name If under 18, Name of Guardian: Address: Phone: Date: City, State: Zip: I, the above named person being 18 or older in age, or the legal guardian of the above named person who is under 18, in consideration of the services provided by the City of Burnsville agents and employees, the promoters, other participants, officials, advertisers and owners (hereafter collectively referred to as "Sponsors"), the rate charged for those services, and the right to engage in this activity as a participant and/or volunteer, hereby acknowledge, agree, promise and covenant with Sponsors, its agents and employees, on behalf of myself, my heirs, assigns, personal representatives and estate as follows: ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RISKS I UNDERSTAND AND ACKNOWLEDGE that the activity that I am about to voluntarily engage in as a participant and/or volunteer bears certain known risks and unanticipated risks which could result in INJURY, DEATH, ILLNESS OR DISEASE, PHYSICAL OR MENTAL DAMAGE to myself, to my property or to spectators or other third parties. I understand and acknowledge those risks may result in personal claims against Sponsors, its agents or employees, or claims against me by spectators or other third parties. These risks include but are no way limited to the following: (1) the risks which are inherent in the activity of in-line skating and skateboarding including, but not limited to, falling, coming in contact with ramps, walls, other equipment or persons; (2) the acts or omission of negligence in any degree of sponsors, and other persons or entities: (3) latent or apparent defects or conditions in equipment or property supplied by Sponsors, or other persons or entities; (4) the conditions of any tract or ramp and accidents connected with their use; (5) my own physical condition or my own acts, or omissions; (6) fa'st aid, emergency treatment or other services tendered by Sponsors, or others; (7) consumption of any food or drink, whether or not provided by sponsors, and untreated water from the environment. I UNDERSTAND AND ACKNOWLEDGE that the above list is not complete or exhaustive and that other risks, known or unknown, identified or unidentified, anticipated or unanticipated may also result in injury, death, illness, disease, or damage to myself or my property or to spectators or other third parties. ACCEPTANCE OF RISK AND RESPONSIBILITY I voluntarily agree, covenant and promise to accept and assume all responsibilities for injury, death, illness or disease, or damage to myself or to my property arising from my participation in this activity. I expressly agree, covenant and promise to accept and assume all responsibility and risk for injury, death, illness, or disease to spectators or other third parties and their property arising from my participation in this activity. My participation in this activity is purely voluntary; no one is forcing me to participate in spite of the risks. RELEASE I VOLUNTARILY RELEASE AND FOREVER DISCHARGE AND COVENANT NOT TO SUE Sponsors, and all other persons or entities affiliated therewith, fi.om any and all liability, claims, demands, actions or type of action, which are related to, arise out of or are in any way connected with my participation in this activity, including, but specifically not limited to any and all negligence, fault, or strict liability of Sponsors, and all other persons or entities, for any and all injury, death, illness or disease, and damage to myself or to my property. I FURTHER AGREE PROMISE AND COVENANT TO HOLD HARMLESS AND TO INDEMNIFY Sponsors, its agents or employees, and all other persons or entities from all defense costs, including attorney's fees, or fi.om any other costs incurred in connection with claims for bodily injury or property damage which I may negligently or intentionally cause to spectators or other third parties in the course of my participation in this activity. I FURTHER AGREE AND COVENANT NOT TO USE, assert or otherwise maintain any claim against Sponsors, its agents or employees, and all other persons or entities, for injury, death, illness or disease, or damage to myself or to my property, arising fi.om or connected with my participation in this activity or fi.om any claims asserted against me by spectators or other third parties. IN SIGNING THIS DOCUMENT, I FULLY RECOGNIZE THAT IF ANYONE IS HURT OR DIES, OR PROPERTY IS DAMAGED WHILE I AM ENGAGED IN THIS ACTIVITY, I WILL HAVE NO RIGHT TO MAKE A CLAIM OR FILE A LAWSUIT AGAINST SPONSORS, ITS AGENTS OR EMPLOYEES EVEN IF SPONSOR, ITS AGENTS OR EMPLOYEES, OR ANY OF THEM NEGLIGENTLY CAUSED THE BODILY INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. · ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF EFFECT OF THIS RELEASE AGREEMENT I UNDERSTAND AND ACKNOWLEDGE that by initializing and/or signing this document I have given up certain legal rights and/or possible claims which I might otherwise assert or maintain against Sponsors, its agents or employees, and other persons or entities, including specifically, but not limited to, rights arising from or claims for the acts or omissions, fault negligence in any degree of Sponsors, its agents or employees, and all other persons or entities. I understand and acknowledge that by initializing and or signing this document, I have assumed responsibility and LEGAL LIABILITY from the claims or other legal demands, including defense costs, which may be asserted by spectators or other third parties against me as a result of my participation in this activity. PARTICIPANT INSURANCE BENEFITS AND REPRESENTATION OF PHYSICAL CONDITIONS I UNDERSTAND AND ACKNOWLEDGE that no major medical insurance benefits will be provided to me during this activity. I certify that I have sufficient health, accident, and personal liability insurance to cover any bodily injury, property damage or disablement I may incur while participating in this activity, and to cover bodily injury or property damage caused to a third party as a result of my participation in this activity. If I have no such insurance, I certify that I am capable of personally paying for any and all such expenses or liability. I FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGE that the undersigned is in good physical and mental health, and not suffering from any condition, disease or disablement, which would or could potentially affect participation in the activity. ENTIRE AGREEMENT I understand that this is the entire Agreement between the undersigned and Sponsored, its agents or employees and that it cannot be modified OR changed in any way by the representations or statements of Sponsors or any employee or agent of Sponsors, or by the undersigned. My signature below indicates that I have read this entire document, understand it completely, and agree to be bound by its terms. Signature of participant: Date: Signature of parent or guardian (if under age of 18):. Signature of witness: Guest Editorial Continued from page 1 r,a~nmunity), while simulta- asly lacking consistent access to viable role mod- els, is to become fixed in a lower, underdeveloped stage of intelligence. Two factors account for most of the problems currently overwhelming an inordi- nately high number of our youth: ' · A nation increas- ingly neglectful and even hostile to the well-being of children · Severely limited access to viable, developed and caring role models (Bums, 1992). This is the~eminent threat to O~ation's collective security and social viability. (Phi Delta Kappa, 1996) Attitude of parents One of the most disturbing factors concerning the youth who are referred to diversion is the attitude of the parents. Parents com- plain when they respond to the initial letter inviting both youth and parent to attend a workshop. Parents feel that they are being punished for something they did not do. Much time is spent in communicating to the parents/guardian that they are responsible for the actions of their child until they become an adult. The value of being sup~o-*- ire to the child through ~....,/ diversion process and their child's life has to be detailed. "Children who demonstrate antisocial behavior come from very nonsupportive families with two extremes. Either the family is repre- sentative and abusive, or it seriously neglects the child beginning in the early years. Surprisingly, paren- tal neglect is almost as strong a predictor of subsequent violence as physical abuse, and the powerful predictor is parental rejection. In one study, 50 percent of chil- dren rejected by their parents went on to commit serious crimes, versus only Another perspective on youth development Skate Parks: Meeting a growing youth develop nent need Contributed by: Randy Bina, 20 percent of abused and neglected children" (Dryfoos, 1995). Juvenile Reform Act Under the new Juvenile Reform Act (Senate Bill 1446) effective July 21, 1997, youth are eligible to complete one diversion program regardless of the city in which the crime was committed. All youth will have a record with the Juvenile Court whether or not the youth completes a diversion class. Juvenile Court utilizes the youth's juvenile record to deter- mine appropriate conse- quences for multiple offenses (Superior Court of Arizona, July 1997). CLP, Bismark Parks and Recreation District, ND, 701-222-6455 Skateboarding, once touted as a fad, has become a nationally recognized sport and youth activity. This rise in popularity has led to televised competitions and skateboarding specialty shops. 'Skateboarding is again being recognized as a viable form of recreation for today's contemporary youth," emphasized fhe International Association of Skateboard CompanieS. ,~c-~Cording to American .s Data, skateboarding is the nation's sixth largest participant sport with its over 6.2 million skaters. As skaters take to streets and parking lots to practice their sport, park districts must take action by build- ing safe and positive environments for these athletes. Bismark Parks and Recreation District (Bismark, N.D.) has identi- fied skateboarding as a primary youth develop- ment 'issue in our commu- nity. The Park District, along with representatives from the Police Dgpartment, City Commission, and the community, have formed a committee to address this challenge, as we recognized the need for skating facili- ties. Research shows skaters involvement in the plan- ning and implementation stages is vital to a skate park project's success, as this involvement will increase skater's sense of ownership of and pride in the project. We held two public forums to gain skaters' input. They offered suggestions on facility designs, equipment, operations, and locations. This feedback assisted us in formulating final park designs. We'll open three skate parks this July. Local government and private contributions will fund this project. Skateboarding -- for many communities - is here to stay. As park and recre- ation agencies, we must recognize this fact and strive to meet the need with our youth development program- ming. P&R Protite: '[he Godtather kute 5ean Hortimer e mighthave been a computer programmer, a filmmaker, a fireman, or a pizza-delivery dude. Who knows? But Tony Hawk didn't pursue any of these vocations. Instead, he became arguably the best skateboarder in h/story. He's skated in front of millions of television viewers and traveled the world a few times over-- all thanks to skateboarding. But none of this would have been possible without skateparks. "1 didn't realize the diversity in skating when I started," Hawk confesses. "1 thought it was just a mode of transporta- tion until I went to my first skatepark." Tony Hawk was 9 years old when his brother changed his fife by giving him a blue fiberglass banana board. Before skateboarding, Hawk was a self- described nightmare. "Instead of the terri- ble twos, I was the terrible youth," he says. "1 was a hyper, rail-thin geek on a sugar buzz. I think my mom summed it up best when she said I was 'challenging.'" He was also pathologically determined. When Tony was 6, his mom took him to an Olympic-size pool "He decided that he had to swim the length of it without a breath," his mother, Nancy, remembers. "And then he was so frustrated when he didn't do it. He was so hard on himself, and expected himseff to do so many things." His frustration with himseff was so harsh that hb parents had him psychologically evaluated at school The results showed that Tony was 'gifted," and placement in advanced classes was recommended. The root of his frustrations was discovered as well. 'The psychologist said he had a 12-year- old mind in an 8-year-oid body," Nancy Hawk says. 'And his mind tells him he can do things his body can't do." When Hawk received the blue skateboard P&R JULY ~ 999 g~ 95 from his brother, his body finally caught up with his brain. One day, a friend's mother took the boys to Oasis, a local skatepark. Soon after, Hawk became a regular atthe park, visiting every day after school 'When he started getting good at skating, it changed his personality, ' says his broth- er, Steve. 'Finally he was doing something that he was satisfied with. He became a different guy. He was calm; he started thinking about other people and beyame more generous. He wasn't so worried about Iosin~g at other things. ' His mother agrees with a laugh. '1 was just glad he was taking all his energy out on skateboarding, and not on me.' But Tony was still beating himseff up. ff he didn't skate his best in a competition-- even ff he won -- he would still be silent, returning home and retiring to his bedroom to be by himself. By 12 he was sponsored; at 14 he turned professional and skated every spare minute that he could find. But skateboard- lng hadn't caught on, and a lot of skateparks were closing down. Fortunate- /y, Oasis stayed open longer than mos~ '/f it weren't for Oasis, I probably would have quit skateboarding at 13," Hawk says. His family moved to Cardiff, Ca/if., when Tony was 14. Del Mar Surf and Tuff,, the only other skatepark open in the area, was minutes from their new house. By 16, Tony Hawk was the best skateboarder in the world. Over the next 14 years, he would enter85 contests, 62 of which he would win (he placed second in 16 others). In 1992, he started a skateboard company, Birdhouse Projects, with fellow pro skater Per Welin- der. Today, as much dad as skaterat, Hawk's days adhere to an outlandish dichotomy, tending to his two young sons' needs-- changing diapers, chaperoning field trips -- before grabbing his board and throwing down any one of the dozens of tricks he's invented. With skateboarding recently making the hazardous-sports list (which means, theo- retically, that participants can't sue park owners if they are injured skating), more skateparks are sure to open up around the count~ "Now that there are so many skateparks around the country, " Ha wk says, uit gives kids the opportunity that I didn't have growing up." ~1 think the skateparks were invaluable,' Nancy Hawk says. ~Even when I didn't go [to the skatepark], I knew where he was and that he was safe. It gave him the opportunity to do what he loved all day long. We would never have/et him go out on the streets all day." · I~I seel these kids everywhere. Flying through the parking lot, down the sidewalk and ~p the middle of the street. For the six ;~llion'skateboard ei~thusiasts in this country, every inch of ce- court and e~,ery obstacle is their hoop. And if these kids, no doubt you've seen the sign, "No Fhe'fact is, no matter how alluring a rail, bank or Main Street USA may be to a skateboarder, it wasn't designed which is why many skaters are viewed as unruly van- dangei's to themselves and the public. In response, local ordi- prohibitlng'ikateboarding in commercial and public go so far as to restrict activity in resi- to do? While many will knowingly and will- fe;~V will mobilize and march down to their city coun- that's done for the baseball, soccer, bas- a space that they too can enjoy, with- o( injury. With the overwhelming success that re&cation departments have had with city-run skateboard parks growing tre~d is to honor their requesL ~- "'. .. P & R J U L Y I 997 I 55 Z)ispemng the Myth Certainly, for any park and recreation professional who begins the process of planning or researching a public skate- park, the issues of safety and liability are of the greatest concern. How safe is this sport? Is this going to bankrupt my city with never-ending liability claims? Are rules ~4. are additional safegr -park and recreation practitioners can project upon participants to reduce and minimize injuries due to falls. sics--helmet, with glove~i, sigdi~a' there actually people who know how to -:6thei' design these things? Not to worry, mu-: make sure nicipal skateparks can be just as safe (ff ": fits well and does not not safer) and just as much fun as any vision or cir~ulatiOn. Learnin~ how to fall other recreational activity we can offer, without breaking the bank. -. According to Jim Fitzpatrick, executive director of the International Association of Skateboard Companies dJ[SC), hun- dreds of skateboard manufacturers and companies supply American skateboard- ers with the most contemporary equip- ment available, contributing to yearly re- tail sales of more than half a billion dol- lars. But for three decades, despite its popularity, skateboarding has had to fight for recognition as a practical form of recreation. Perhaps the most damaging prejudice is the notion that skateboarding is an un- safe sport. When compeer .to other recreational activities, skaieb~lihg has a smaller percentage of rep0i:ti~d' ~j~u'ies per participant (.49%) than 0ther'iicfivi- ~ ties, including soccer (.93%);' ba'sebiill. (2.25%) and basketball (1.4956)'. According to the U.S. uct Safety Comrmsslon (CPSC), of~ per~ sons treated each year for sk it ba a lated injuries, one-third of the injuries suffered by new participants'. been skating for less proper safety equipmen{:i~"vitai to in- jury--and liability--preVe/~ti0n, it is even more important that new riders wear ad- equate protective equipm~i~t~'~Vhile are developing balance properl)~:al~a i;~an the difference be- tween · "" Albert Fierro ' ' s0ciafio~:~i.of Bay Area Oo¥~r..'nments 'P6-0i~d H~i6ility Assured Netwi~:~'(ABAG PL~' Corporation, a provider ofgenerZ,~:: al liability and property insurance'to 30,~ citiel in the San ' that "the issue of.liabili! skateboard p~rks, .non~' had any slr~tebo'ii~ding beginning~f the insurance 1986. ~'~ ~ Fierro said that he would like cities take skating areas in more public parks; areas that are treated just like basketball - courts. One way Fierro hopes to achieve this goal is to expose the "two-headed Ii-,. ability beast" as a myth in the mind: the uninformed.... '..,i..~.-}' He offers some munifies considering sl~t~b0a~d" include skaters in the design process;'in' volve professional risk manfig~/rs and' 7 :: landscape architects during tint deS~? (: and implementafiofi; and~in ifi~"'~':' ion--open the park onl withou fits all." The following testimonies prove that you can have similar needs and still : have different rules, facilities and poli- cies. Huntington Beach, CA Bill Fowler, superintendent of Recre- ation and Human Services for the City of Huntington Beach (CA), says that after an ordinance prohibiting skateboarding in commercial areas was passed, it was evident something had to be done. Wv-e are about providing safe opportunities for everyone, not just the ones who play a particular sport." It opened up the op- portunity to work with a whole new pol> ulation of youth. Fowler's department oversees two city- run skateparks. The Murdy Park skatepark opened in August 1993, and the other park, which is located on the cam- pus of Huntington Beach High School, opened in 1994. Each is free to use and cost about $70,000 to build. They are both "street" style parks, with concrete bench- es, rails, curbs, and small ramps. The specifically designed challenges of th'e skateparks quickly lured the loiterers from the shopping mall parking lots. Four years later, Fowler describes the end result as a win/win situation in what was before thought to be a zero-sum game. Soon, police were expending less time and resources chasing skateboard- ers. They were working with the kids, and in turn, the kids were feeling less an- tagonized by the authority figures. If it hadn't been for the police enforcing the ordinance in the first place, the park and recreation department might never have had the chance to get involved, and the skaters wouldn't have a safe, legal place FoWlc that the skateboarding · ~" "POsitive mentality" really ' helped i~ir cause, proving them to be ~ed. Although thes prove~ even en out IS . ~,legal as are-the re- s gives th~ kids dr, skateboard ,use, and is 20. He moi-e ~hlt I've :led 2Fe "' ~roJess. im, olve else, Worm- skaters and con- to see what type of facility for the community. the skaters are construct shapes that rep- stac~es they want. Worm- that this approach works these parks are both safe the interest ;for t there are a developing space consid- 10,000 and 997 J 59 are.'sh6wn that th~ ope~-' ~ maintenance. ' ::'- will be ;~s' responsi: '. :. c,i-}'ik.~: ? abb about sirni- :.;'-; In-line skates appeared in century, more as but were sta~ simulate ice skating; never caught on the general pI W'hat's the fastest growing sport in America? Soccer, basketball, golf?. How about mountain bi- cycling or snow boarding? The answer is "none of the above." The fastest growing sport in America, and probably the world, is in- line skating. With over 30 million persons skating last year in the U. S. alone, in-line skating registered a 19 percent increase in participation over 1995. This kind of growth is typical of a sport that had bare- ly a million participants just a decade ago. There are only a few reasons to believe that this growth rate will not continue. The biggest could be a lack of accessible and safe places to skate. Fortunately, this is a problem that is easily solved, partic- ularly with the help of park and recreation departments. In-line Skating's Appeal In-line skates first appeared in the 19th century, but were used more as stage props to simulate ice skating; they never caught on with the general public. More than a century later--in 1980---a young hockey player in Minneapolis came across an old pair of skates in a sports store. The skates had four wheels aligned in a row, unlike the traditional quad skates that had been popular since the turn of the century, and seemed to offer a solution to someone looking for a way to play hockey during the short Min- nesota summers. In fact, they worked, and soon he was making similar skates in P&R JULY 1997 t 63 The appeal of in-line skating is that it is fun, safe, and never boring; not t( initial modest Investment in a pair of skates and protective gear. his basement. This was how the Roller- blade company was born. Today, there are over 250 companies manufacturing skates, wheels, bearings, clothing and other equipment that meets the needs of hockey players, fitness skaters, racers, high-flying aggressive skaters, and folks who are just out for a leisurely skate down the local bike path. The in-line industry has reached the $1 billion mark; those who forecasted that in4ine skating was a fad--the next hula hoop--were wrong! The appeal of in-line skating is that it is fun, safe and never boring; not to mention that it provides a fitness benefit equiva- lent to running and costs little beyond the initial modest investment in a pair of skates and protective gear. Anybody can skate, even those who think that they can't. Lessons are widely available and for a commitment of Jess than an hour and a reasonable fee, the most timid non- skater will soon be gliding along. Another unique aspect of in-line skat- ing is its adaptability. Almost anything that can be done on ice skates can be done on in-line skates. Thus it is no sur- prise that in-line hockey is taking off. It can be played indoors or out, on a variety of surfaces, during every season. Today, there are leagues all over the country for men and women of all ages; there is even a professional league. In-line skates have been adapted for use in figure skating. And there is even an in-line basketball league on the East Coast that is expand- ing rapidly. Finally, in-line skating attracts superb athletes to its racing scene. One sport that owes its existence to in- line skates is aggressive skating. Created by kids and loosely based on skate- boarding, this sport is the ultimate ex- pression of balance and dating. Skaters slide on their skates down banisters, rails and ramps. They do stunts and tricks that are seemingly not possible. They get air- borne after shooting down one side of a Instructor Certification Program (ICP) Each year, The lISA Instructor Certifi- cation Program offers programs for hundreds of in-line skaters who want to become certified to teach others to use in-line skates. The ICP uses a stun- dardized and proven format to assure thatthose persons who are certified are effective in-line instructors. It is recog- nized as the finest program of its kind throughout the world. Parks and recreation programs can utilize the ICP in several ways. First, they can offer in-line skating classes to mem- bers of the community. There are several thousand certified instructors in the Unit- ed States alone. These instructors will know howto set up an effective program for all levels of ability. Second, if there are no instructors in your community, a hosttraining program can be scheduled. Expert trainers will actually come to your community for a training session. Certification is generally a weekend program which includes classroom work, a teaching seminar held on skates, a written exam, and a practical exam in which instructors are scored while teaching a class. Candidates must pos- sess specific skating skills as well as the ability to teach. There are three levels of certification. Level I and II focus an basic and advanced fitness and recreational skills. Level III focuses on specific skills required for sports, including aggressive, racing and hockey. Information on the Instructor Certifica- tion Program and helpful assistance in starting a program is available from the IISA/ICP office, 201 N. Front Street, Suite 306, Wilmington, NC 28401. Phone 910- 762-7004; fax 910-762-9477. mention thai it provides a fitness benefit equivalent to running and cost little beyond the "half pipe" and up the other. Aggressive skating has become a staple of the sports phenomenon and is known as "extreme games." Clearly then, in-line skates can be adapted to a variety of games, but 85 per- cent of all persons who skate do so for fun and fitness. They need only smooth pave- ment to get one of the best workouts pos- sible while enjoying themselves with friends and family. Skating is also a great social activity; a way to meet others who share a common interest in a healthful lifestyle. The Role of Parks Every Saturday and Sunday during the weather months, 15,000 to 25,000 show up in New York's Central with their in-line skates. Nowhere can so many in-line skaters ~ found at the same time. Some of these more than capable of handling them- amongst the legions of runners, dog walkers, and fellow many of these novices; not confident in their and less than certain as to how to others. creates a real challenge for the York Department of Parks and :a resource like Central Park was meant to provide a natural experi- ence- a tranquil refuge-- for city dwell- ers. They might see thousands of persons whizzing around its roads as hardly tran- quil. However, this smooth, careless pave- ment is unique in a city like New York. There is no other place where skaters, runners and bicyclists can find such a safe and beautiful place to enjoy them- selves. Park officials have determined that this resource should be available to all who can be safely accommodated, con- sistent with the goals of the park. Where some see chaos, others see a rich pan- oply: a human merry-go-round of color- ful, structured motion. P&R JULY 1997 I 65 Given the financial constraints faced by public agencies today, in-line facilities Elsewhere in Central Park, there are others on in4ine skates, only these are hockey or aggressive skaters. There are no ready-made facilities for their activi- ties; they may be playing hockey in a parking lot or doing stunts--skating down rails and marble steps--on public monuments or buildings. Because they are younger and dressed differently than those who are gliding around the park's roads; because they are skating where they aren't supposed to and may possibly cause property damage, they are more likely to attract the attention of the police than are the recreational skaters. Park of- ficials have too frequently taken a con- frontational posture toward this younger group of skaters. This reaction ignores the reality, however, that in-line hockey and aggressive skating are skyrocketing in popularity. What is needed in virtually every community in America is a safe, su- pervised place where kids can do stunts and play hockey. A typical park system has tennis courts, basketball courts, swimming pools, ball fields and other facilities that cater to specific sports and recreational activities. The provision of such facilities is not questioned as a proper function of a public park system. Few park systems, however, have kept up with or even tak- en notice of the explosive growth of in- line skating. They have yet to provide fa- cilities for in4ine sports and some have actually banned recreational skaters from their paved surfaces. Given the financial constraints faced by public agencies today, in-line facilities make sense. First, most park systems al- ready have paths and roads. These can be made available to in4ine skaters at no cost beyond that of normal repairs. Conflicts among users can be solved by closing down roads during certain times of the day or week and restricting use during those times to non-motorized users. Fed- eral money is available for path con- struction under the Enhancements sec- make sense because most park systems already have paths and roads. These can be made available to in-line skaters at no additional cost. tion of the Intermodal Surface Trans- portation Efficiency Act CISTEA). Many communities have used these funds to build linear parks in areas that would oth- erwise be unusable. Underutilized tennis or basketball courts can easily be con- verted into hockey facilities. Skateparks for aggressive skaters are popping up all oven These facilities have ramps, walls, steps, rails and other artifi- cially constructed surfaces that actually improve on those found at city hall - or wherever else skaters are unwelcome to congregate. Skateparks reduce conflicts between kids and authorities, reduce property damage and provide a super- vised, safe place for kids to enjoy them- selves (See Matt Rankin's article on p. 54). Although not unreasonably ex- pensive, skateparks are more expensive than other in-line skating facilities; how- ever, the cost is easily justified when bal- anced against the problems that they solve. Builders and designers who spe- cialize in these parks are readily available, as is insurance. Partnerships Welcoming in-line skaters into a park, or including them in the plans of a recre- ation department, may seem daunting to managers who did not grow up with in- line skating or are not in-line skaters themselves. Fortunately, there is plenty of help available from organizations with interests in all of the various manifesta- tions of in-line skating. The International In-line Skating Asso- ciation (IISA) offers several programs that can make a difference in building a successful in-line skating program in your community. Think of the skate scene in Central Park. Keeping things operating smoothly in the capital of in-line skating is the job of the Central Park chapter of the National Skate Patrol. This IISA pro- gram operates in nearly 20 cities in the United States and Canada. Each of these dries has a large park with paved paths or roads that attract thousands of skaters, bicyclists and runners. The job of the vol- unteer members of the skate patrol is to politely interact with all users: keep con- flicts from developing, teach beginners basic skills like stopping, spot injured per- sons and call for help, and serve as role models. IISA and its members provide support to skate patrols in the form of uniforms, equipment and training; there are no financial requirements made of the park department. Another important IISA function is the training and certification of in-line skating instructors. The Instructor Certification Program (ICP) has trained several thou- sand persons to teach beginning and skilled skaters how. to get more enjoy- ment from the sport. Most skate patrol Skate Essentials i A~ little knowledge, when it comes to -/~'!?!i~? ;kates and skating, is deft- · - ,nitely not a dangerous thing. Just ~ the oPPosite, in fact. It helps to under- ! stand'a fewbasic'concepts about skates :~' ~t'ndr'h~ ~'0' ~USI~ them; the result will be [ moi~'-.fU'~ai~CJ few'er problems. !;.: Buy the right skate for you. If you are int~re~te~ i~ recreation you will want a ~ different skate than will a person who [ wants to play hockey. There are very ; spemfic skates for racing, fitness, ag~ii;~'~ive,h0~key, and recreation. Bet I' Ve~ ~'a~icular about fit Comfort is the ,,: most ~mportant cr~enon when choosing a ~; skate; Wheels Come in different sizes and ~ shapes; Choose smaller wheels when b~gi~ni~g; a~"~ii~y ~Vill give the most con- trol. Look for quality bearings in your whe~lS)n order to get smooth rolling ' Si~t~ th~Will require less effort on your i~bSol~eiy do not omit a brake i Unles'~ you"a're an expert skater. , The'cost of a new pair of skates will vary considerably, and will usually be r~lated to the intended use of the skate, members are ICP certified and set up free novice clinics in the parks during week- ends. Many instructors work with park departments all over the country to teach skating as part of the departments' recre- ation/education programs. Hockey is played on in-line skates by over three million persons and is growing rapidly. Much of this play is casual: kids on the driveway or street in front of their house. However, USA Hockey, our coun- try's governing body for Olympic ice hockey, has established an in-line pro- gram that has 80,000 participants playing in well-organized leagues. There are many other leagues that operate inde- pendently. All use specially adopted rules, use either a ball or puck, and emphasize safety by mandating protective gear and the quality of its construction and materi- als, and its features. It's not a good idea to skimp on your first pair of skates while finding out if you'll like the sport; you will have stacked the odds against yourself! Protective gear should always be worn. Never walk out of the store with that first pair of skates unless you have protective gear too. The basic items are helmet, wrist guards, elbow and knee pads. It is best to take a lesson before you set out on your own. If this is not pos- sible, practice on traffic free, level, smooth pavement, wearing all of your gear. Bring a companion to help you. Learn howto use your brake. Avoid hills unless you are skilled at controlling your speed and stopping. These words to the wise should not be taken to mean that skating is hard to learn. In fact, skating can be learned, literally, in minutes; you just want to be careful during those first few minutesl For more information on getting start- ed, call 800-56-SKATE, for a free lISA Gear Up! Guide to In-line Skating. P&R JULY 1997 t 67 Ninety percent of all in-line skating injuries are preventable if protective gear is worn using referees. Several companies man- ufacture permanent and portable boards and playing surfaces. Information on skateparks will soon be readily available if efforts to establish the National Skate Park Foundation are suc- cessful Most organizations that have any- thing to do with in-line skating--particu- larly IISA and the Aggressive Skaters As- sociation (ASA), which conducts aggres- National Skate Patrol The IISA's National Skate Patrol originated when members of the New York Road Skaters Associa- tion saw a need to improve safety and skating conditions in Central Park. Since 1992 the program has spread to many more cities in North America. .These include Miami Beach, Portland, Philadelphia, Detroit, Chicago, Atlanta, Pittsburgh, Minneapolis, Ft. Lauderdale, Washington, DC, and Vancouver. At least 10 new patrols may form this year. Starting a NSP chapter is easy. The lISA will provide training for the initial group of volunteers, as well as uni- forms, some equipment and insurance. Thetoughpart sfindng eadersh pfor the patrol, lISA mandates that there be ~i:}*,'i'chapter coordinator who is willing to put in the effort needed to assure that );~trol is well organized and man- red. In addition, there is an annual forthe coordinators that ..... ~ires chapter representation. Local pters are also expected to secure support or sponsorship to pay for and other necessary :-f:,.lflIormatlon on starting a National Skate Pa~ol can be obtained from the lISA National 0ffme, 3720 Farragut Ave., Suite 400, Kensington, MD 20895. Tele- '/:;';}~::~Ono 301-94229770; fax 30~-942-9771. sive skating competitions--are inundated with calls from persons looking for help getting a skatepark built in their commu- nity. Recently, a group of interested par- ties met in Los Angeles and agreed that there is so much interest in skateparks that a new organization is needed to an- swer questions and promote safety. In the meantime, there are a number of builders and designers who are available to help any park department install a skatepark. Builds Strong Bodies Safely In-line skating is safe. In fact, in-line skating is a lot safer than most sports that take place in the average park with the support and encouragement of the whole community. According to the U.S. Consumer Prod- uct Safety Commission (CPSC), last year about 100,000 persons were admitted to emergency rooms with in-line skating- related injuries. Seven times that number required treatment for basketball in- juries, and over twice that number for baseball injuries. Remarkably, 40,000 golfers required emergency room visits. In terms of sheer numbers, in-line skating is barely in the middle of the pack; look- ing at injury rates, however, is even more interesting. Basketball has an injury rate of 2.34 injuries per thousand participants. Cycling registers at 1.08. In-line skating has a 0.37 rate, just a bit worse than golf at .26 injuries per thousand participants. There is even better news. A study car- ried out by the Centers for Disease Con- trol (DCD) and published last year in the New England Journal of Medicine con- cluded that 90 percent of all in-line skat- ing injuries are preventable if protective gear is worn. This creates a strong argu- ment for park and recreation depart- ments taking an interest in in-line skating. The more skating that is done in a su- pervised setting, the more likely it is that skaters will wear helmets, elbow and knee pads and wrist guards. This is par- ticularly true for kids in a skatepark. Ob- irn. i!.iihls creates a strong argument for park and recreation departments taking an Interest in in-line skating. Avoid traffic. 3. Skate Legal Obey all traffic regulations. Skaters have the same obligations as any wheeled vehicle. Respect property rights. Leave the area you skated in exactly as it was before you were there. 4. Skate Courteous Skate on the right pass on the left. Announce intentions to pass verbally. Always yield to pedestrians. lISA Rules of the Road 1. Skate Smart Always wear protective gear - helmet, wrist guards, elbow and knee pads. Master the basic skating skills - striding, turning and stopping. Keep equipment in good order - replace wheels and bearings that are worn and check skates before setting out. 2. Skate Alert Skate under control at all times. Watch for road hazards. Avoid water, oil and sand. ation department is to promote safety. Considering the growth of in-line skating, the argument for taking an interest in this activity grows even stronger. No one is quite sure why the mere mention of in-line skating to anyone over the age of 30 elicits this response, but it is almost a sure bet: "It looks like fun, but I just don't want to get hurt." This is an in- accurate perception, and because of it, millions of Americans are depriving themselves of a tremendous opportunity to improve fitness, lose weight, meet new friends, and have fun--all at a fraction of the cost of joining a health spa or pur- chasing expensive home exercise equil> ment. In fact, older Americans stand to benefit the most from in-line skating. It is a very low-impact activity with a high lev- el of strength development and aerobic gain. It can be done on the street outside one's home or in the neighborhood park. It lends itself easily to social/fitness ac- tivities that many recreation departments offer for seniors. Each skater can deter- mine an appropriate pace; it is not neces- sary to go fast to have fun. Lessons are easily obtainable; the basic skills are sim- ple to grasp. Even the very design of skates helps support and protect the foot and ankle. Making It Happen In-line skating offers something for everyone. Park and recreation depart- ments are in an ideal position to encour- age young and old, men and women, and afford them an opportunity to try skating in one or more of its many guises. By working with existing non-profit organi- zations, first-rate programs can be creat- ed without delay and without significant cost. At the very least, based upon the in- formation in this article, it is hoped that parks and recreation officials who may have discouraged in-line skating in the past adopt more supportive policies to- ward members of their communities who wish to enjoy this remarkable physical ac- tivity. · P&R JULY 1997 I 69 Skateboard Park Gives Tualatin Youth Choices, Voices and Fun Tualatln ~ m~ve1~ ~r- t~ipatod in d~i~ ~ fun& ~i~ ~ ~n $1YO,~ in ~nm~ ~ 4~ ~ ~ ~c p~d~ and p~n~ a ~ of~u~.Tual~n is a ~mm~ T~l~ti~ High ~I ~- *up~ ~ in ~l~ng a eka~ ~ ~ ~de a safe pla~ for ska~ ~d ~-li~ l~.~e ~tad~ offe~ ~ ~rk ~ a~ ma~n~. e~ni~ for ~ ~pIe ~ in~l~ in the mmmu~ mod ~ add~ ~ e~sting ~e~ ~.Aekate park auld als pm~de n~ded a~r ~ati~ while hclpi~ an e~ng issue involving ~n~ble ~e ~u~ by funds ~ d~lop a ~ptual d~i~ ~d ~t ~ma~ and assist ~'ith fund-~ising and A ~ulting ~ ~en~ in sh~ 7~rk d~i~ ~s hi~ to ~rk with you~ ~ple ihmu~ a p~ that ~d- cd ~ ~t~' in~b and ~lti- x'at~ a ~n~ oF o~ership. ~ in~ix~ d~i~ ~rk- eh~ w~ held at O*e ~o~ ~an 50 ~g ~le and ~ua~t fa~llty. ~e ~unl ~t estimn~ was R fund~islng ~mitt~ ~i~n~ ef )~mth and adul~ ~'a~ fo~. It was ~mi~d ~ g~ud~ f~ ghe high lead--hip tla~ and a mem~r ~f Ci~ ~L ~e ~mmi~ prepared a fund-cai~ing plan with a three-month timetable. More than $170,000 in dona- tions of cash and in-kind labor and materials were received during the three-month fund- raising campaign. With more than 450 donors, the list ia a 'who's who' o(. community indi- viduals, organizations, and busi- nesses. The mayor, several past and current members o(. the City Council, and Parks and Recre- ation Department staff were actively involved in the fund- raising campaign. The Tigard- Tualstin ,Scheel Board was cam- relied to donate generously as well. Dr. Russ JokJ, superinten- dent, said the 8cheel Board donated because it 'promoted a positive alternative for Idds after they get out o('seheel.' Mare than 50 companies agreed to donato materials and labor ('or the project. The general enntractnr coordinatod wRh the donors and (i ed in the gap~ as needed on a time and materials basis, lie donated overhead and profit and the fiat concrete work. Y0ut~ Emp0wenmn! The Tualatin Skate Park pro- ject yielded lung-lasting benefits to individuals and the communi- ty beyond the recreational ('acili- ty that was the youth's goal. 'llds project is ~iv(ng the stu- dents hand,-on experience ting goals, planning nnd design- ing o major project, ('und-raising and marketing, and working within the political procer.~ to realize a common goal. %~,qmt a ~reat opportunity for them,# Rich Ilager, a former city coun- cilor. "llmse student~ are our future civic leaders and their enthusiasm is conGqg(ous.' Chris Oergstrom, 19, a high r, chc~l Rtudent leader and newly elected member of the City Council, said 'City Councilor Cain sat down with the student hod.~ and explained a timeline about how city government ~)rka. It was very educational. tva learned how to get things dnne instead of just talking about them." Bergstrom said being involved w(th city govern- Yoan~ plaaae~ kelped des~ tke park, wklck provide~ space [or speclator'z aad offe~ maay featar~ which make street skateboardi~ popular. ment has taught him that a g~od itive~'asid Kelly Mellow of Home leader doe~ more Ustening than talking. "I had the chance to ese how politics work.' Erika Myers said. 'I also learned how generou~ the people in the community ~ The eemmunity aswa positive side of youth,' said Myer~ 16, a high achoo! junior, who gave fund-raising atatus reports to the city council during its tele- vised meetings. Local businesses saw the youth involvement and it inspired their support. "There has been an amazing communi- ty involvement in this project, especially ('rom the business community,' Mayor Lou Ogden said. =And it has been the youth that have made this happen. They proved what vision and passion are ali abeuL' We wanted to contribute to semething that could help stu- dents who may be at-risk get involved in something more pos- DepoL ~Fhe kids seemed to real- ly take o~nership of this project and that was neat to ~-~.,' she said. Joanne Engcrrman, who owns a salon that ran a 'haircut- a-than' to raise money for the project, said,'It is my pleasure to help the younger residents acquire something they want so Wendy Dander, a local artist. donated her time to mentor high ~chool students in designbig a 2- feet high by 30-feet w(de ceram- ic mosaic mt~ral. The mural was assembled by middle school stu- dents, under Dunder's guidance, and mountod onto a low concrets wall at the entrance of the skate park. '~Yany o(' the kids who had lasting involvement were those that are not served by other activities sponsored by schcol, Young people became empowered, Iean~ed about local goven,nent, strengthened civic pride, and presented a positive image of youth. community, church, or service g~ups like scouts. Those were the ones who really hung in there and worked hard.' said Dunder. 'I never really got involved in something like this before', said Kellye Justice, 12, a middle school student. 'This hel~ both the school and the park, and it sounded like a lot oF fun.' Dun- der said one of the best compli- ments she overheard one young person say to another in the lin- go of the day was 'qiey, that's phaL"m Details: Cnntact I~ul lien- non, Parks and Recreation Director, Telephone 503-692- 2000, extension 931; lax 503- 691-9786; or small phparks~telepo~.ram. Community youth prayed an active'role in funding the public facility and took greater and greater pride as donations grew. WELCOME TO SHOREVIEW'S" SweetRoll" SKATE PARK HELMET MUST BE WORN ~VHILE SKATING NO BIXES ALLOWED SMOKING, .&LCOHOL .~N-D [LLEG.~L USE OF DRUGS ARE PROHIBITED PROFAN'ITY, LOUD MUSIC OR DISRUPTIVE BEI~4VIOR WILL RESULT IN LOSS OF SKATING PRIVILEGES RESPECT OTHERS, SI-L~U~E THE SPACE THE CONLMU2~TY CENTER STAFF IS THE FINAL AUTHORITY IN PARK MATTERS. FAILURE TO FOLLOW PARK RULES WILL RESULT IN LOSS OF SKATING PRiV~EGES. ENTERING THIS PARK YOU ARE ASSUMING THE RISKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES INHERENT IN ALL SKATING SPORTS. 09'57 1998 ~ 59' ;MD 20895; ,942-9770 or perceived as a haft of those skating Adults, particularly. away at the steps of city hall, see inline" as ~ nuisance. There ii also that by my' neighbors that ?10 P~:~fi~e' aggressive~ 6r stunt,~ ska/er~i th~ i:emalning 10 percent are in- lin~hocl~eY players, women make up half ~f all skatersj Inline skaters represeniall: ethnic groups and can be found in every inline skating grew at a rate of stx percent; the inline industry re- with dismay. These are not the P&R JULY 1998 ,~ 63 numbers to which it had become accus- tomed. Compared to the growth rates of other sports in 1997, however, inline skat- ing continued as a leader in the sporting- goods industry. Participation in baseball, basketball, tennis, softball, racquetball, and mountain biking all declined. Golf saw an increase, thanks primarily to the boost from Tiger Woods and a host of oth- er young golfers. Some fitness activities, like treadmill exercise, walking, and weightlifting, are growing. While there is no clear drop in participation in team sports and games, stationary cycling, aer- obics, and swimming all declined, ff recreation officials are confused about where the interests of the American pub- lic are headed, it is easy to see why. But the case ofinline skating deserving the at- tention of these officials is a solid one. Inline skaters are generally an agree- able group. After all, they've discovered and adopted a very enjoyable pastime. The majority are well educated, reason- ably well off financially, and are regular members of the community. The recre- AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR LEISURE AND RECREATION Executive Director. The American Association for Leisure and Recreation {AALR) seeks candidates for the position of Executive Director. AALR is one of six associa- tions comprising the American AI]iance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHP£RD), and is located in Reston, Virginia {near Washington, DC). Qualifications: {$) Masters degree required, doctorate preferred, in leisure and/or recreation. (2) The Executive Director is responsible for carrying out the mission of the Amer- ican Association for Leisure and Recreation by providing leadership in research, development and marketing of national programs to serve the AALR membership. (3) Demonstrated excellence in administration and business skills. (4) Demonstratedexcellenceininterpersonalskillsneededtobuildmutuallyposi. tire relationships with: la) the AALR administrative staff, Board of Directors, Exec- utive Committee and membership; (b) six professional associations within AAH- PERD, the Executive Vice President end the administrative staff of AAHPERD; lc) leaders at federal and state levels. {5) Articulate spokesperson in leisure and recreation. Excellent writing and com- munication skills, Computer literacy skills are important {word processing, finan- cial record keeping, data base management, and desktop publishing). (6) Demonstrated excellence in fiscal management with proven abilities in gener. ating internal and external income, writing and procuring grants, and ability to oversee and meet budgets. {7) Thorough understanding of the various fields and environments of leisure and recreation and their relationship to the other disciplines within AAHPERD. Qualified car~didates should send e vita, addresses and phone numbers of at least three references, and a statement outlining interest and capebi}ity for the position t~: AAIR Executive Director Search Comm~ee AAHPERD 1900 Association Drive Reston, VA 20191-1598 Salary Iow $40's, depending on qualifications and experience. Applications should be received by September 1,1998 in order to receive full consideration. AAHPERD is an Affirmative ActiotVEqual Opportunity Employer. THE BEST SUPPORTING ROLE FOR ANY PLAY. Clean, Durable, Economical Playground Protection. Shredded Rubber Mulch from Sparton Enterprises consists of recycled rubber particles that are clean and durable. When you maintain the minimum recommended 6" depth (approx. 14 lbs./sq, ft.), Shredded Rubber Mulch far exceeds the same level of sand and wood chips for shock absorption. For more information call today. SPARTON ENTERPRISES, INC. 3717 CLARK MILL ROAD afional activity they have chosen is very healthy. They burn a lot of calories and improve their cardiovascular fitness while experiencing an injury rate not much higher than golfers and dramati- cally lower than participants of basketball and bicycling. So, assuming that I have made the case that this group is deserv- ing of some attention, what does it need? Aggressive skaters require skateparks, currently a very hot topic, and are happi- est on steps, ramps, and mils. Inline-hock- ey players require indoor or outdoor rinks. Obviously, the quality of neighbor- hood streets is not an important issue for either of these groups. It is the recre- ational and fitness skaters who need smooth pavement. And while some are confident enough to skate on the streets -- assuming they are skatable -- and mix it up w~th vehicular traffic, the majority of adult skaters are happiest on paved paths or roads in their local parks. Here they can enjoy a "smooth ride" without having to worry about traffic. They can skate at their optimum pace, rest when necessary, Replace Worn Out Swing Accessories Before They Become a Problem! Genuine IERICAN SWING Parts! PLEASE CIRCLE READER SERVICE CARD NO. 29 PLEASE CIRCLE READER SERVICE CARD NO. 30 and enjoy the views. The mecca for recreational skaters is New York City's Central Park. Closed to traffic, the paved roads that wind through the park are filled with 20,000 or more skaters -- plus thousands of bicyclists and runners -- on summer weekends. The Central Park Skate Patrol keeps a watchful eye on this show, keeping the various elements from conflicting with one another. The New York City Park De- partment encourages this intervention and provides space for a stopping clinic at either entrance to the park. In Chicago, the lakefront path is also a skater's par- adise and is kept that way by the Chica- go Skate Patrol. Both patrols, as well as 24 other patrols in cities from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Miami Beach, Flori- da, are part of the International In-Line Skating Association's (IISA) National Skate Patrol program. These cities have demonstrated that public paths or road- ways can safely accommodate inline skaters, bicyclists, and pedestrians. With little or no additional investment, a corn- Parks and Recreation Director City of Oxford, Ohio The City of Oxford, a college community of 28,000 is ac- cepting applications for the position of Parks and Recreation Director. Current Director is retiring after 17 years in the po- sition. Position duties include the planning, organizing and supervising day-to-day operations of the Department. Department facilities include a community center; senior citizens center; outdoor pool; and ten parks. Department personnel include four full-time and 55 part-time seasonal employees. Position further includes staff liaison to Recreation Board and the Talawanda Recreation Incorporated Board, a private non-profit board. The successful candidate must possess a basic knowledge of all phases of community and recreational activities. A com- bination of education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor's Degree in Recreation Administration, Leisure Services or related field and five years experience in the parks and recreation field including two years in a supervi- sory capacity is required. A Masters Degree is preferred. The hiring range begins at $44,000 DOCL excellent fringe bene- fits. A cover letter, resume, salary history and five references should be sent to: Ms. Michelle Kiamie, Personnel Director, City of Oxford, 101 East High Street, Oxford, Ohio 45056, by no later than July 27, 1998. EOE reunify can provide a great place to skate; all it needs to do is open an existing area and provide supervision. In addition to good places to skate, the would-be skater needs competence. The first m or perhaps the last-- skill a skater must learn is stopping. While many indi- viduals who try inline skating have been on ice skates, that experience does not fully prepare them for stopping with an in- line-skate brake. This skill can be easily learned from a qualified instructor Na- tional Skate Patrol volunteers, constantly on the lookout for wobbly beginners, give fledglings simple instruction to keep them from getting in harm's way. A more formal instruction program, using lISA Certified Instructors, is available for recreation departments. The lISA Instructor Certification Pro- gram has trained more than 2,000 Level I instructors. These instructors have in turn taught hundreds of thousands how to skate. This program has had a signifi- cant impact on the inline-skating accident rate. which declined dramatically in 1996. Communities that have relied on in- structors to teach classes on a contract basis are now training their own employ- ees. Chicago recently sent seven individ- uals to a weekend certification program in Detroit. Mine instruction classes re- quire very little investment. There is no expensive equipment needed. An empty parking lot, which is not usually a prob- lem in the evenings, serves as the venue. Protective gear -- helmets and pads -- should be a requirement. Inline skating can be done alone, but it is a wonderful group activity. Recreation departments provide evening or week- end skates where beginners can get to- gether with others for morale-building trips on a local bike path. Some depart- ments may sponsor skate clubs or hold special events. The first National Inline Skate Week, which was held this past May, gives communities a reason to hold recreational skating events that encour- age the whole family to come out and en- joy themselves. In some cities, group skates are held downtown after the cam- muters have gone home and the streets are quiet. These "city skates" attract thou- sands of people who get to taste the for- bidden fruit. Led by National Skate Pa- trols, the skaters run on streets that are normally off-limits and see the sights from a truly unique perspective. They help bring life and economic vitality to downtown areas after-hours. Some community leaders will continue to view Mine skating in the same light that the city fathers viewed billiards in the 1960s musical The Musicman: an out- law activity enjoyed by fringe elements that threatened the very social fabric of the town. Fortunately, those in the business of meeting the recreational needs of our communities are becoming more familiar with inline skating and have accepted it as a legitimate activity, an integral part of the community's recreational agenda. As the story went, pool prevailed and the town lived happily ever after. And just in case you were curious, billiards is the na- tion's second most popular sport. · PRICE CHOPPER INC. · Casselbeny, Fl. * Hempstead, NY * VafleJa, CA ,, tendon, ON Canada · Port ef Spain, IYInldad · London, England · PLEASE CIRCLE READER SERVICE CARD NO. 33 ACADEMY FOR YOUTH SPORTS ADMINISTRATORS 1998 TIZAINING&LIMITED ENROLLMENT October 18-20, 1998 E, ~'"~' ,~"~ December 13-15, 1998 Force Academy/'-~ ~.~ i;~ Co.recence Colo~do Spdn~; ~l .~~ ~ ~ter and Reso~ Colo~do ~ ' ~ ~?~~* ~le Beach, South Planning Prog~s, Seasons find Events * P~ents: ~ucation ~d Involvement * Vohnteem in You~ S~m . Child Abuse ~ucation & ~evention * Financial Management . Liability, Safety, Insurance and Risk Management * ~adership & Professional E~ancement a program of the IA ~ ALUANCE ~ The National Alliance For Youth Span is tn Authorized CEU Sponsor #202%1 For more information contact: Academy For Youth Sports Administrators (561) 684-1141 or (800) 729-2057 PLEASE CIRCLE READER SERVfCE CARD NO. 34 P&R JULY 1998 ~ 67 CITYOF CHANHASSgl ~90 City Center Drive, PO Box I47 Chanhassen, Minnesota 55317 rhone 612.937.1900 ' General £ax 612. 937.5739 £~zgineering Fax 612.937.9152 Public Safety £~x 612.934.2524 ll~b u~vu:ci, cha,hassen, nm. us June 23, 1999 Mr. Bob Bourbonais Dolliff Insurance Company 6465 Wayzata Boulevard #850 St. Louis Park, MN 55426-1721 Dear Mr. Bourbonais: The City of Chanhassen is investigating the issues surrounding the development of a skate park. The City's Park & Recreation Commission is proposing the construction of a facility for in-line skating and skate boarding. The proposed location is adjacent to city hall. The site is a 200 ft. x 200 fl. asphalt pad that is home for two ice skating rinks during the winter months. The following guidelines are being suggested for the construction of this facility: 1. All structures must be less than 3 ft. in total height. 2. The site will be unsupervised. 3. Perimeter fencing will not be installed. 4. All apparatus must be affixed to the asphalt surface. 5. Minimum 10 ft. use zones will be maintained between apparatus. 6. Private ramps and jumps will not be allowed at the site. 7. Skaters will be required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as helmets, wrist guards, elbow and knee pads, and shoes. 8. Signage displaying park rules and hours, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., will be posted. 9. The Park & Recreation Department, with involvement from Chanhassen and Carver County law enforcement, will enforce park rules and conduct. 10. A weekly maintenance inspection of the park will be conducted by the city's Park Maintenance Department. 11. During winter months, the skate park apparatus will be stored, making way for hockey board assemblies. I have spoken with Mr. Bill Hindricks with Loss Control Services at the St. Paul Companies. Mr. Hindricks stated that many communities are constructing skate parks. It is his opinion that the city would increase its exposure only to the extent commensurate with the addition of another play structure. Mr. Hindricks is sending me guidelines that they recommend be followed when constructing these facilities. Mr. Bob Bourbonais June 23, 1999 Page 2 My question for you is, "Would the construction of a skate park increase our property/casualty rotes?" In addition, please provide a written position as to the exposure and potential liability that owning and operating a skate park will encumber upon the city or you as our carrier. Thank you. Sincerely, Todd Hoffman Park & Recreation Director TH:k c: Scott A. Botcher, City Manager g:\park\thXskate park dolliff, doc eStPauI St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance Company 408 Sz. Peter St., Ste. 300 St. Paul, MN 55]02d118 651.310.5000 Fax 651.310.5383 Claims Fax 651.310.5380 65].310.5378 June 28,1999 Mr. Todd Hoffman, Parks & Recreation Director City of Chanhassen 690 City Center Drive P.O. Box 147 Chanhassen, MN 553 ! 7 Dear Todd: Here is a cop3' of the technical bulletin regarding skateboard facilities that I described last week. While there are hazards inherent in skateboard facilities, there are measures that can be taken to reduce risk factors and still have a fun and challenging experience for the kids. The enclosed bulletin is designed to help our clients achieve the delicate balance between challenge, fun and safety. Please let me kno~v if you need anything. Sincerely, Senior Risk Control Consultant Phone: (651),~,,~.-,,A~'* Fax: (651) 405-0079 Email: bill.hinderks~stpaul.com enclosure: Skateboard Facilities Technical Bulletin ccr Scott Botcher, City Manager Todd Gerhardt, Assistant City Manager Bob Bourbonais, Dolliff, Inc. Maureen Lunde, St. Paul Public Sector Services JUN 2 9 1999 CITY (JO UHANHASSEN The purpose of our survey was to develop currenl underwriting information and to assist you with your loss control program. The maintenance of safe premises, operations and equipment, and the avoidance of unsafe conditions and practices are the legal responsibility of the insured/client. Any suggestions for improvement are based on interviews during our visit and observations made of various operations and practices at that time. It is not our intention that our suggestions, or our survey, cover the requirements of the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Act or any other Safety or Health Acts, or to imply or infer there are not other hazards and exposures in existence, and we assume no liability for the services provided. 'rhoSl, Paul Public Sector Services SKATEBOARD FACILITIES IN PARK AND RECREATION PROGRAMS One of the major factors that continues to make or break an entity's decision to build a skatepark is the associated liability. The liability related with operating a skateboard facility can differ by state. Liability may be limited if the state code provides immunity from any civil action associated with the use of public entity operated recreational facilities, or perhaps includes skateboarding on a "Hazardous Sport list". As long as gross negligence is not found, an entity may be free from liability. In addition, many states have caps on claims that can limit the award if negligence is found. Still, many states legislation provides little to no protection from liability claims. the laws do not provide protection from vicarious liability associated with the participation with hazardous acts, skateboard parks can be a risky endeavor. If Types of Skateboard Parks Street Skating Structure- Open space concrete or asphalt with hand made structures for skater's to maneuver across, over and around. The beginnings of organized skateboard facilities. Skate Bowl Structure- Pilings driven into the ground with clay packed around to form hills and valleys covered with concrete, asphalt or a stand alone fiberglass flume type bowl. The start of organized skateboard facilities. o Half-Pipe Structure- "U" shaped piece of equipment from which skater's can drop in from 10 feet high verticals and skate back upward to the other side. This type of structure offers greater speed, height and energy, at a bigger risk to skaters. Injury Statistics Source: Data compiled by the National Safety Council and the Consumer Products Safety Commission and is derived from reports and patient records of emergency and hospital facilities. Before considering the data below, it must be understood the skateboarding injuries include those sustained while skating in uncontrolled facilities such as streets and sidewalks as well as skateboard parks. Sport Participants Injuries % of injuries Baseball 36,6000,000 437,207 1.26% Football 14,700,000 409,296 2.78% Ice Hockey 1,700,000 61,264 3.6% Skateboarding 6,200,000 27,718 .49% Whether skating around the home, on city streets and sidewalks, or at a well- designed and maintained skateboard facilities, participants are exposed to injuries. The injuries sustained by skateboard riders vary from minor cuts and abrasions to concussions, fractures and dislocations. Considerations in Planning and Designing a Skateboard Facility Conduct a comphrensive use and needs assessment of the current and potential recreational park system users. Determine if providing a skateboard facility will benefit the largest number of users of the park systems. What will provide the most recreation based on the areas demographics: a new skateboard park? new playground equipment? new or improved ballfields? new or expanded bike path? 2. Have the skateboard facility designed by a landscape architect with experience in designing skateboard facilities. 3. Determine if building a skateboard facility is economically feasible. 4. Test ramps through qualified professional skaters. 5. Mark runs with signs or colors for degree of difficulty. 6. Locate walkways at a safe distance from skaters. 7. Provide adequate drainage to eliminate water from ramps. 8. Post signs at facility entrances requiring the use of ANSI or SNELL approved bicycle helmets, and elbow and knee pads. If supervision is to be provided, an entity may be held to a higher safety standard and exposed to greater liability. Facility staff must be well-trained on the use, rules and risk of skateboard parks, and have first aid and CPR training. (Currently, most facilities are not supervised) 10. Maintenance and inspection requirements are dictated by the materials used in the construction of the facility. Installation Cost The cost of building a skateboard facility will vary based on design layout and size of the facility. A rough estimate is from $50,000 to $100,000 for Skate Bowl structures, less for Street Skate structures. Maintenance and supervision costs will vary by facility design. St. Paul Public Sector Services Loss Control Recommendation The risk of injury to participants in skateboard facilities with Half-Pipes is too great to recommend to be included in the Parks And Recreation's recreation program offerings. The height, considerable speed and energy associated with Half-Pipes places skaters at greater risk to injury compared to Street Skating and Skate Bowl structures. If an entity decides to go forward and build a skateboard facility, it is recommended they build a Street Skating structure or Skate Bowl structure (Half- Pipes not recommended). It is suggested the entity obtain the services of a landscape architect with experience planning and designing skateboard facility. New Coverage Options for Skate Parks By Tina Fo[d~-Fre£ermuth 11 za your city. experienced prob- H munides across Mirme~ora arc - rezei~ng com. o[~m about skatebo~de= ~d a~sive s~te=. The scen~o see~ to be s~e re~s of c~um~ size or 2ocafion~nes' busm~ ~c~ s~e~ng ~age to bo~ p~vate ~d ~ub~c prope~. ~e Le~e o~M~nn~om Cid~ ~[nsu~nce Tv~t ~MCI~ ~ ~ceived ;n ~cre~g n~bez of~q~ about ag~ess~ve s~te ~. Thee prom?e~ ~ co ~ook at nke ~u~ sur- couv.~ng such ~c~d~ ~d ~e~ coy- e=~e options. [n ~ke ~t. LMCIT offered Eab~W covcm~ for ~sive s~te p~, but required ~t ~e: be ~v. ~ence~ ~d con~uousiy su~evhsed. Sinc~ m~v s~ ca~d not ~ard :o canmnuomly super- ~5se a s~re park. LMC!T m~ned {7 loss con~ot .... ' .... To eeui- :ably undersize mk e~osur~ for membea. LMCIT ha de~ed a ~vo- ner:d covema~ :=vroach. ~e ~vo ~e= ~e de:e~nzd by ~c heist :he skating s~cmr~. Tier fJadliff~. Shoe pa~ x~th ail ~'rmcn~res generally [~s than rMee fcc: coral he,hr ..~ not be cha~ed'm 5on~ pre,urn (~r ~nsumnce coverage. Such (atOnes can be =~ted ~ke other piay~ound zquipment: they do not nerd m be t~nczd or condnuomlv mhe~ised. To reduce eh~ ~elihood collisions :nd [njuW to s~tem. ~mre~ mus~ be fixed m Nace ~d sepa- =red by: mimmum t~-tbot u~e zone. in ad&non. ~kafing smacmr~ mus~ have stracmrM '- ~.~ - i,,t_=.,=, and youth may hoc bnn~ &.:er a~m nmps into lenu with skateboarders or have youth approached your ci~' council requemng a skate park? · ~ many loci govemmenm d:Js may ~hready l~ow, corn- :Ul skate parks should require that .,skaters svear personal protec-dve eqmp- 'ment such a~ he'nets, wrist guar&, elbow ~nd knee pa&, ~nd appropriate shoes. Silage muat indicate that per- sonat protective equipment is required in order to me the park's faciikv. To emure r. hat youth follow the posted roles. 'the police an.d/or parks d~ar~- menm should enforce re=4Sations. in place. Became skating swacrures can rapidly deteriorate with uae or by van- cLn[km, it may be necezaz~! to perform daiiv insvecdons. Inspecton should check skate parks for e.-cceraive wear and for ~pping hazards such = loose sand. br.,nches, or rock. Tier Er facilid~. Facitide= swacvar= generally more :hun &reef eec in total he,hr wiil be charged a p~mium for imurance cove:~4e. P~:nium =res for Tier II skate p=ks r-.,n~ fi'~m ~2.500 to $7,500. Factem affemng the premium charge include: anticipated a=endance [evets. the size and number of structures, and the hours of opera- don or'the facility, (i.e.. open a few ciavs a week venus open daity). To receive r=MCIT cove=ge ,"or Tier II skate parks, a number oil'.oas control measures must be imple- mented. Tier [I par'ks must be connnu- ousiy supe.wised during houri of open- don. and fenced md secured when 5upev,'ision is unavailable. Skate park plans rnusc address: environmen~ con- trois: continuous supervision: ficiliw mien. re~ladom, and si~agz: regular maintenance and saziry inspecaens: and embrcement o£the weanng proceed,re gear. Good record keeping at skate parks could help your city defend claims o£ injury. Therefore. such ~kc~fies must documen~ and condnue a ~brmal main- ren~ce pr%~=,m; pe~orm d=5iy inspec- tions of the skating area ~o idend~ potend:d hazards; and complete a re- port following any acddent or injuW. Skaten (or their parents or ~ardian if under 18 yearn of age) should be re- quired co sign waiven o£ HabiliW. C,hildren younger ~an 10 ,/'e-~'s of age should not be a~:lowed into '~e skate park. (The A.meNcan Academy of Pe- diamcs ~bund chat 50 percent of skate- boarding rented injuries for c'.~ciren age~ 5 to 9 are head md neck injuries.) Because a.~g'Messive skating cam result in serious injury,, a Tier [I fac:.licv must have the foilowing items readily avaii- ~ie: telephone or =dio communica- non to emergency se~wices; a complete medic~A tint-aid ' ', ~: and 'ice packs and samm,w :o~veis. Skaters with be~mnhng co interme- diate experience should Erst develop their skills before arzempring advanced equipment. Large advanced :amps should omtv be aczezsibie :o with advanced exaeNence and su~eaor atNefic abilir¢. Compe.4uon$ at faci. iide~ m~t be resmcted :o dnose sponsoring or~nizauons chat are able co provide se:amce insu~nce core,ge and a con,ct holding :he ow: harmiess and indem~zd. ~' l~ina Fo'c~t-'~re:enp. udz :'s loss centroi ,assis- ram with rite ~'~?te ~[.Vlinnesota Citers fnsuraucc Tntsr. To receive u derailed memo on ,(~rc'aSWc :'kate ?:r~. conrac~ Thru at '6 ~z, 2~5-g069. Yo,r ci:',."s L?[CiT ~i,mm'~ ,~ skate ~ark: :ail~'4_ i_,v~ 9 ? o-eno6. Direct ,d[ :?tzrio,s a~,out :nsura;Ice :'ovcra~( ro Li'fCiT': :ma'cm.mu~ff d'cvarrmrnr ,it