StraightFromTheHip

What safety information should skatepark signage include?

  
Skatepark signage should comply with the Sport Facility Sign Standard ASTM. Signage needs to be installed on a signboard at or near the entry to the park. It can be free standing or fixed to a fence. Click on the link below to read more about skatepark rules and signage considerations. You can also check with your skatepark designer / builder for additional information, or visit nearby skateparks to see what they have included on their signs.

Planning - Skatepark Rules Considerations

We have determined that charging a fee to ride at our skatepark is going to be required, is there a standard fee range? What’s acceptable?

  
Unfortunately at times this is unavoidable. One good solution is to charge a one time annual fee. Ocean Beach, California and many others have charged annual fees between $20.00 - $30.00; each member is issued a card. If you must charge at a public facility each visit then $2.00 - $3.00 is ok, over $5.00 can just be too expensive unless it is an excellent facility. Private skateparks usually offer additional value, making admission worthwhile.

We currently do not allow bikes in the city’s skatepark, but due to pressure from the BMX riders we are considering changing the rules and allowing them to ride at the park. We need to gather information on the preference of skateboarders, since the park was designed specifically for them. We have conducted local surveys and we have talked to our local skate shops on this issue. But we are in need of even more input. We want to know what the skaters, not the bikers, think about allowing BMX style bikes into the park.

  
Unfortunately the perception of skaters will vary from one rider to another, different geographic locations, skill level, and for no reason at all. There is no set answer anyone can give you, the best solution I can offer is to continue the research in your community so you can make the best decision for all who may ride in the park.

For the most part the design of a park will work fine for both skateboarders and Freestyle BMX. Each of them enjoy the technical aspects of smaller obstacles and the speed rush of riding the larger quarter pipes, bowls, etc. There are many factors to consider when making the decision to allow BMX riders in the park. Size of the park, Freestyle BMX rider population, construction materials, obstacle selection, and whether the park is supervised or non-supervised tend to be primary issues cities are faced with.

Two common concerns of skateboarders are safety and damage to the park. Depending on where you go and who you ask this obviously varies. Many skateparks throughout the world have been
successful allowing skateboarders and BMX riders to co-exist. The fact is that Freestyle BMX riders are a fast growing population in action sports and need a place to go. Below are some solutions to consider:

1) Allow both disciplines - Easiest to operate
2) Separate sessions for both - Allows each a fair amount of time
3) Bike only days - Does not exclude them altogether
4) Ban Bikes - Not recommended

My recommendation is to combine number one and two, set up different sessions but leave it open for the individual disciplines to decide for themselves if they want to ride during that time. This allows everyone access and may be the fairest way to accommodate everyone without building a bike only park.

I have 3 boys aged 20, 14, & 9. They have asked if we could build a half pipe in the back block. I have talked to some builders and they would like some details and design to get started on building one. Where can I get some information on building one?

  
Thrasher Magazine produces a comprehensive guide for building ramps of all types. They also have a great video that provides useful instruction. Most skateboard retail shops either sell them or can order them for you. Otherwise do a Google search for Thrasher Ramp Plans and many online retail sites come up. Good luck with your creation!

Why do you need an expert in skatepark design, can’t my landscape architect do it?

  
Maybe, but in most cases NO. Because skateparks are very different from other recreational facilities it is important to have an expert in skatepark planning and design on your team to facilitate the process. There are many factors to consider. For example: age, riding discipline, skill level, even riding style plays a role when determining your design. An expert in skatepark planning and design will know how to translate the information learned from the locals and provide concept design solutions that meet your wants, needs, and fit within budget. Make sure to enlist an unbiased consultant or company. This way the materials or manufacturer can be selected based on the wants and needs of the community with the least limitation. It takes years of experience to effectively design even the smallest skatepark project. The local youth, even experienced riders still need to work with experts in design to end up with a skatepark designed for long-term success.

We’re planning a concrete skatepark facility next year and will be working with local contractors, do you have any advice or tips to guide them?

  
When working with local contractors make sure to closely involve an experienced skatepark designer throughout the process and an onsite construction advisor with skatepark construction and riding history.

The most successful facilities have been built by expert skatepark crews and collaborations with local landscape architects and construction groups.