Skaters Get Rolling at Park of Their Own

Local skateboarders will be breaking in the city’s new skate park today at a ceremony that officially opens the 10,000-square-foot course of concrete boxes, snakes and pyramids at Independence Park.

For years, merchants have complained to police about skateboarders using public sidewalks and private parking lots to practice their sport. The noise from clanking wheels, inconvenience to customers and occasional damage to concrete curbs was more than just a minor nuisance, they said. Skateboarders, in turn, were frustrated that there were no designated spots for them to practice in the city.

The $340,000 park was funded through Redevelopment Agency bonds, and construction on the facility began in July.

The city included local skateboarders in the design process for the park, said Stacy Simpson, Independence Park administrator. Now, they can hardly wait to use it.

“They’re excited,” she said. “They want to get on.”

The dedication ceremony will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. at 801 W. Valencia Drive. Refreshments will be served. All skaters must wear helmets and knee and elbow pads when using the unsupervised but gated public course, which will be open every day from 9 a.m. to dusk.

Information: (714) 738-5365.