The long-awaited Reading Skatepark officially opened to the public Tuesday, marking the end of a year-long construction project and the realization of a decade-long dream for the local skateboarding community. The dedication ceremony, held at the skatepark’s location on the corner of South 6th and Canal Streets, was attended by city leaders, volunteers, and dozens of enthusiastic community members.
The Reading Skatepark Association, which was founded in 2016 by a small group of dedicated residents, has worked tirelessly over the past several years to make this skatepark a reality. The RSA partnered with Berks County municipalities and the City of Reading to advocate for the growth of free public concrete outdoor skateparks, with this new facility serving as the centerpiece of their efforts.
JD Turner, owner of Holistic Skate Shop in West Reading, was the driving force behind the project. He has spent the past ten years championing the need for a skater-designed, free-to-use concrete skatepark in Berks County. With the completion of the Reading Skatepark, Turner’s vision has finally come to fruition, providing a dedicated space for skaters of all ages and skill levels to gather and hone their skills.
“I appreciate y’all for making it and believing in this dream. I’m a skateboarder. When I was growing up I wanted to be a pro skateboarder, then I met Maurio McCoy, and I’m not a pro skateboarder, because he’s amazing. I want to say that for everyone that’s out in the crowd today, we’re all connected by skateboarders. We all know skateboarders in our life, and we all dreamed of this park and I’m so happy that we got it done. So thank you, I appreciate you all, and I love you all so much,” said Turner before the ribbon cutting. “This park is going to impact future generations, it’s gonna be here for all the kids in future, and I can’t thank you enough for helping out.”
The 22,000-square-foot skatepark was constructed in two phases. The first phase included land development, stormwater controls, and the creation of a parking lot. The second phase, which saw the installation of skateable features such as stairs, bowls, and rails, was completed earlier this summer, just in time for the park’s grand opening.
Funding for the $2.3 million project came from a variety of sources, including a $200,000 grant from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), a $90,000 grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), $200,000 from City ARPA funds, and $855,000 from the Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
Podcast: JD Turner – Creating spaces for skateboarders to thrive in Reading
“Your belief in this project and your investment in our community have given us a gift that will keep giving, but our work is not finished. We come this far by staying within the budget, but we have future plans to enhance this space even more. Shade structures, permanent fencing, site lighting, and restroom facilities are upcoming additions that will ensure that this park remains a vibrant and welcoming space for everyone for years to come”, said Mayor Eddie Moran at the dedication ceremony.
“This park is open to all skateboarders, non-motorized scooters, bicycles and even wheelchairs. It is a place where everyone regardless of age or ability can come together, share space and enjoy the thrill of skating,” said Moran.
The opening of the Reading Skatepark has been met with excitement from the community, particularly among local skateboarders who now have a dedicated, state-of-the-art space to practice and enjoy their sport. The park is expected to become a central hub for the skateboarding community in Reading and a testament to the power of grassroots advocacy and collaboration.
