For skateparks, concrete is the way to go. A concrete park offers a permanent and virtually maintenance-free solution to a cities skatepark needs. Plus, the majority of skaters prefer concrete parks.

Take a moment and check out the photos below. Even non-skaters can instinctively sense that the concrete facility has more "flow" and as a result will be more fun to skate. Contrast that with the "up and back" quality of the ramp park which has almost no flow. Plus the ramps will require routine maintenance and ultimately, replacement. Also notice the expensive slab of concrete needed to place the ramps. Why not get it right from the start?

A ramp park, whether fabricated from wood, steel or other materials should be considered only if the municipality already has an unused basketball, tennis court or parking lot available. These types of ramp structures are for short term use only. There is no good reason to build this type of facility if there are sufficient resources for a permanent facility. Under no circumstances should a city pour a slab of concrete to build temporary ramps as the funds would be much better spent building a permanent concrete skatepark to begin with.

Most concrete skateparks will cost between 20 and 25 dollars (USD) per square foot to build. ($270 USD per  meter)  That cost figure typically includes all design fees and services, construction materials and labor. However, that is just the skating surface. That cost will not include common amenities, such as bringing water and power to the site, fencing, lighting, bathrooms or landscaping. In general, parks worth building cost a minimum of $250,000. Compared to the cost of other athletic facilities, that is quite reasonable.

Written by Anthony Gembeck