Orange Park Skatepark takes flight with busy summer schedule
Business is booming at the skate park’s skateboard shop, with funds generated through the shop selling boards, decks, bearings, wheels and other parts.
ORANGE PARK – Paul and Melody Riegel formed OP Skatepark Inc. last December, creating the framework that led to Orange Park Skatepark opening a month later.
The park received a facelift in 2016, …
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Orange Park Skatepark takes flight with busy summer schedule
Business is booming at the skate park’s skateboard shop, with funds generated through the shop selling boards, decks, bearings, wheels and other parts.
ORANGE PARK – Paul and Melody Riegel formed OP Skatepark Inc. last December, creating the framework that led to Orange Park Skatepark opening a month later.
The park received a facelift in 2016, transforming it from an old, outdated collection of wooden structures into a fully-functional, modern and contemporary fun zone complete with half-pipes, handrails, pools, bowls and other favorite obstacles constructed out of sturdy, clean, state-of-the-art concrete.
The town’s skatepark lacked a soul, but now, it is rockin’ and rollin’ into the summer, especially this week.
Skateboarders recently completed their repertoire of tricks, such as ollies and kickflips, as hot dogs and hamburgers cooked on the grill throughout the day and into the night in honor of National Skateboard Day.
When the sun set, lights spotlighted the park while new, big-energy JBL speakers played their favorite hits.
The Orange Park Skatepark celebrated the national holiday until 10 p.m. It was a treat for children on summer break, who could stay up past their regular bedtimes, along with their parents, who watched in amusement.
Since taking over, the Riegels have already established a fully-operating concession stand and skateboard shop, two significant and much-needed upgrades for the park. They also hosted a skateboard contest earlier in the spring.
The park’s schedule will be packed, including the Orange Park Summer Shred on Saturday.
Registration starts at noon, and the contest starts at 1 p.m., with age divisions 10 and younger, 11-14, 15-18, and 19 and older competing for prizes.
Awards will for the Best Trick and top finisher for the handrails and stair set. A raffle, food, and Free Product Toss will also be included in the fun.
“We’re looking forward to a great turnout. It should be a nice contest,” Riegel said. The park is quickly continuing to make facility improvements. A mountain bike trail will be built behind the skatepark. A recent unanimous vote from the Town Council approved the project outline.
To find out more, call (904) 708-8706 or visit the Town’s Skatepark at 1006 Fromhart St. near the Orange Park Athletic Association complex.
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