Pouring flat surfaces with straight sides is basic flatwork similar to forming a sidewalk or driveway.  Simply concentrate on marking the forms straight, level, and parallel to one another.  Getting forms level, parallel, and at the correct height will be easier with some assistance.  When attaching forms to stakes use a power screw driver, because nailing is likely to loosen or move the stakes.  The use of screws will also make it easier to make adjustments and disassemble the forms.  Build a 2 x 4 form along one side to start.  For a true 4-inch slab, the 3½-inch boards will have to be set ½-inch above the ground (2 x 4’s are actually 3½ x 1¾).  Set guide stakes to outline the perimeter of the park.  Stretch a guide string between stakes placed at the edges of the skatepark to demarcate the outside edge of the park.  Lay a 2 x 4 on edge with its inner face touching the string line.  Drive a stake against the outside edge of the board near one end.  Hold the 2 x 4 at the desired height and screw or nail through the stake and into the 2 x 4.  If you are using nails place a sledge hammer against the inside of the board to absorb some of the impact of nailing and to keep the board in place.  Leave the nail heads exposed to facilitate their removal when it is time to disassemble the forms.  Drive all stakes deep enough before attaching them to the form board so that the top of the stake is just below the form board.  If this is not possible, cut off the tops of the stakes before placing and pouring concrete. 

Next, drive another stake near the other end of the form board making sure that the inner face of the board is still in line with the string guide.  Set the form to height and then fasten the stake to it.  Match the end of the next form board to the first form board, and stake and fasten it in the same manner.  Continue with more form boards until you reach the end of the straight area to be formed.  Check the height of the form along its entire length to confirm accuracy.  Finally, drive stakes every 4 feet and fasten them to the form boards.  For the opposite side stretch another guide string between the layout stakes that describe that side and continue as before.  For more information, see the digital photos below.

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