Skaters maneuver the banks, inclines and jumps at the new skate park. Photo by Rohanna Green

A new chapter in Phoenix’s growing skateboarding community began on Dec. 1, 2001, with the dedication and opening of the new North Valley skate park located in Paradise Valley Park, 40th Street and Grovers.

The 26,000-square-foot complex is a concrete pool with ramps and rails surrounding it where skaters can grind and pull 360 degree kick flips. Helmets and pads are not required but are highly recommended for safety since there is no “lifeguard” to oversee the injured. Everyone skates at his or her own risk.

Michael Dean, supervisor for the Parks and Recreation Northeast Division, says that the park was partially paid for by the Phoenix Park Preserve and from government funding.

“Parks and Rec decided that the North Valley needed a park, and so did the community,” he says. Residents in the area didn’t oppose having one. “If they did, they haven’t told us yet,” says Dean.

Six-year skating veteran Caleb Glenney, 20, enjoys the new park. “I love it because it’s free, it’s big and I don’t have to drive all the way out to Glendale or Chandler anymore to skate,” he says.

This is the sixth skate park in the Valley. Other park locations include Chandler, Glendale and the Metro Center Mall. Parks and Recreation plans to build more parks to meet the demands of Phoenix’s sprawling population and the extreme sport’s growing popularity. The North Valley park is open 7 days a week, and is free to the public.

Last updated: March 28, 2002
Paradise Valley Community College- URL-http://www.pvc.maricopa.edu
© 2002Maricopa County Community College District. All Rights Reserved.
Click here for Questions or Comments.