CHARLES  RIVER  PARKLANDS  UPDATE
Fall 2003
Archives—Table of Contents

New Basin Skatepark Picks Up Momentum

Seems like every time you turn around someone whizzes by on a skateboard or in-line skates. In response, the Charles River Conservancy has been advocating for the construction of a world-class skatepark accessible to kids (and those who are young at heart) from all over the Metro Area.

The area selected lies under the approach ramps to the Leonard P. Zakim-Bunker Hill Bridge in the New Basin part of the Parklands between the Science Museum and the Harbor. As advocates for the Parklands, the CRC saw that a skatepark along the river would be a wonderful way to bring athletes as well as spectators to an area where shadows and noises from overhead highways make constructive landscaping a challenge.

The project is moving ahead nicely. The landscape architecture firm of Carol R. Johnson Associates is working with a CRC-led team to integrate the skatepark into the larger planning of what until recently were brown fields. Other team participants include the Central Artery-Tunnel Management group and the state Department of Conservation and Recreation, which is the owner of the site. New England Skateparks has been advising the CRC on design features and related issues.

Young skateboarders give their design ideas.

Eager to involve youth and future skatepark users in the planning and design process, the Conservancy has hosted two well attended meetings at the Boston Public Library, with plans for a third meeting in November. Public input, especially from parents and kids, has been gathered on design, safety and maintenance.

With the support of elected officials, community leaders and public health experts the New Basin skatepark is shaping up to be a wonderful opportunity for Boston's athletes! Local skateboarding ace, Vanik Hacobian has assisted the Conservancy in moving the project forward. With kids eager to get their boards off the ground, the Conservancy has made the project a priority. To learn more about this way cool spot to go airborne or just to get involved, browse our information about the New Basin Skatepark, or email us at crc@thecharles.org.

Vanik Hacobian with site in background.

Charles River Parklands is published by The Charles River Conservancy, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation of the Basin parklands of the Charles River.

• Next: Boston Business Leaders Recognized for Skatepark Effort.
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Email: crc@thecharles.org

 
© 2003, The Charles River Conservancy.