Cortez’s skatepark will close for repairs starting Aug. 11 and continuing for two to three weeks, according to the Cortez Parks and Recreation Department. The city noted that the repairs were “long overdue.”
“The skatepark has a dedicated group of users that are passionate about maintaining this free space for generations to come. I quickly learned that there was much that needed to be done to rehab this space into a safe and usable area. This project is long overdue,” said Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Jenny Bandi in a news release.
The city has contracted with Sychar LLC to repair and resurface damaged concrete areas, build a retaining wall to reduce debris, install a low rail and remove a concrete block. The removal of the concrete block will help with skate flow and future maintenance.
“The skatepark has some significant distressed areas that are in need of repair,” Cortez General Services Director Casey Simpson said in a recent City Council meeting. “The project is an immediate safety issue for the city and a source of notable public concern.”
The city said the project is part of an effort to make the city’s parks safer for families and youths.
“Having free safe spaces for youths and families to enjoy are critical for the vibrancy of our park system and our community,” Bandi said. “Updating the skatepark is the first task, maintaining a presence from the new Park Ranger Program and developing strong community partnerships are other priorities.”
The skatepark will be also be integrated into the Cortez Park Rangers’ patrol route, and further maintenance will be supported by a collaboration between Parks and Recreation staff and the community.
Patrons of the skate park are asked to respect the boundary around the skatepark during the repair period.
Other upcoming projects include electrical upgrades at the South Softball Complex, turf improvements at South Neighborhood Park, playground equipment replacements, a new roof for the outdoor pool’s mechanical building and restroom removals at Montezuma and Veterans Parks.
