Project Background
Aging Skate Park & Relocation
Over the past several years, the deteriorating condition of the skate park has led to ongoing discussions about its eventual replacement and potential relocation. An initial effort to address the surfacing was unsuccessful, as the ramps have continued to settle over time, creating additional gaps and uneven areas in the riding surface. Advancing this effort has required thoughtful planning, coordination, and sustained funding commitments.
The skate park will be relocated to accommodate the placement of the new pickleball courts. Identifying a suitable on-campus location for relocating the skate park has been an ongoing challenge for many years, as there is limited campus space. The new location is set to be between the High School track/turf and the Wentworth School parking lot, alongside the tennis courts. It was intentionally selected due to its proximity to the skate park’s primary users (students) and its high visibility.
Expanding Pickle Ball Courts
As identified in our Parks and Facility Master Plan, there is strong community interest in exploring opportunities to improve and expand our facilities, parks, and amenities. The proposed projects directly support these priorities and help advance the broader vision outlined in the Plan.
Eight new pickleball courts will be added to the site of the current skate park near Memorial Park. The location is designed to create connectivity with the existing two courts in Memorial Park and establishing a central hub for pickleball play within the community.
Understanding the Project Sequence
Commitment to Both Recreational Amenities
The Town’s intention is not to eliminate the skate park or diminish the recreational community surrounding it. When funding for the pickleball courts was added to last year’s Capital Improvement Plan, it was made clear that the goal was not to replace one recreational amenity with another, but rather to support both while identifying a long-term solution for a relocated skate park.
Project Funding and Initial Planning
The pickleball court project and skate park relocation were approved through separate budget processes and fiscal years, reflecting continued support for both recreational investments.
- Funding for the pickleball courts was added during the FY25 Capital Improvement Plan process.
- Funding for skate park relocation planning and development was approved through the FY24 and FY25 budget cycles.
- Planning and design work for the future skate park location is currently underway.
Because both projects had already received funding approval, the Town has continued advancing them simultaneously where possible.
Why the Pickleball Courts Are Moving Forward First
Although connected, the two projects differ significantly in complexity and timeline.
The pickleball courts can move forward more quickly because they are being constructed on the existing asphalt surface at the current skate park location. In comparison, development of a new skate park requires:
- Site planning and engineering
- Permitting and infrastructure coordination
- Planning Board review
- Design development and equipment planning
- Additional construction preparation
While there is understandable interest in seeing the new skate park completed first, delaying the pickleball project until the entire skate park relocation process is finalized could substantially postpone both projects.
Construction Timing and Cost Considerations
Construction timing also plays an important role in project sequencing decisions. The seasonal window for asphalt and concrete work is relatively short, and both materials require substantial curing time during favorable weather conditions.
In addition, construction costs continue to rise. Since pickleball funding was approved last year, projected costs for the project have already increased significantly. Delaying projects that have already been approved and bid could result in:
- Additional construction cost escalation
- Contractor rescheduling impacts
- Reduced purchasing power within approved budgets
- Delays to both recreational projects
For these reasons, the Town determined it was important to proceed with the project currently ready for construction while continuing the planning and due diligence necessary for the future skate park relocation.
Project Process & Site Location Determination
The project of adding new pickleball courts to the current skate park location and relocating the skate park will be conducted in phases.
Phase 1: Closure of the existing skate park and construction of eight new pickleball courts. The existing skate park will close on May 10, 2026 to remove equipment and prepare the site for construction. The estimated construction timeline extends from mid-May through late July 2026. We understand this will have an impact during the summer months; however, coordination with contractor availability is necessary to ensure the work is completed efficiently and on schedule.
Phase 2: Construction of new skate park on school campus. The skate park relocation requires site approval, permits, and construction documents that are expected to be underway beginning in June 2026.
Current Project Status
The skate park equipment removal process has now moved forward, and the pickleball court project has already been awarded to a local contractor. Construction is anticipated to begin the week of May 18, 2026.
At the same time, the Town remains committed to advancing plans for a new skate park location that will continue serving the community for years to come. Community feedback regarding future skate park features and equipment will continue to be welcomed as planning progresses.
