Station 1 Skatepark Opens in Saint John

This Halloween marked the grand opening of Station 1, the new skatepark for the Saint John Community. Long anticipated (and overdue in the minds of many) the park is a safe place for local boarders and bladers to practice their skills without worrying about the usual confrontations with nervous pedestrians.

The park is located under the Main St. viaduct, adjacent to Harbour Passage and Harbour Station, making it easy access for many local youth in the community. One west-side kid I spoke with at the ribbon-cutting was really excited that he could “skate the passage straight to the park”, while my neighbours in the south end feel comfortable letting their kids use the pedway system through the Uptown to get to the park on their own. And the place has huge potential for some amazing events – just look up at the underside of the viaduct and you can imagine an awesome lighting and sound system, flags and other necessities of an outdoor party!

Since the grand opening I’ve swung by the park to see how long the buzz will last. If anything, I think it’s actually busier this week – word must be getting around. It’s great to see so many kids out being active and having a great time in our Xbox world (hopefully not ditching school while they’re at it!). I only hope more girls get out there – I’ve only seen two so far, which I find really strange… if we’d had something like this where I grew up I know my sister would have practically lived there. Get out there Bettys… I know there must be a few of you somewhere in Saint John!