Youth feature prominently in the news this week. School District 47 is developing Powell River as a destination classroom; students are building key life and leadership skills through outdoor education; and City of Powell River is considering which direction to take with the longboarders on our streets and a crumbling skateboard park.
There is no question that this community values and celebrates youth achievement. It is important, then, to consider all youth when making community decisions.
Boarding and riding BMX bikes are growing in popularity and if the city wants to stem problems before they start happening, being proactive is key.
The current skateboard park beside Powell River Recreation Complex is underused because some riders believe it is unsafe to ride and it does not offer basic amenities like water to drink or a bench to sit on.
A multi-purpose park would attract skateboarders and BMX bike riders. It is one way to make the community more inclusive and carries with it a number of benefits.
A redesigned park would give youth a place not only out of traffic, but also in a safe environment where they can focus their energy outside of school. We all know the importance that sports play in teens’ lives, helping them build self-respect which leads to keeping them away from cigarettes or skipping school. Skills are developed through repetition and practice, and for anyone with time to watch, enjoyment oozes from youth persevering in a sport which captures their passion.
If skateboard parks are designed and constructed correctly they require little in maintenance. Examples of excellent parks are available, just ask the youth—they know.
Skateboarding is a multi-million dollar industry that attracts new riders to its ranks every year. Vancouver has become a mecca for not only skateboarders but also longboarders. Skateboard parks in Metro Vancouver, on Vancouver Island and throughout the province draw skateboarders looking to try out new parks and meet new people. A new park could attract skateboard tourists if it is designed to do so, bringing more people to Powell River and benefitting the community.
There are more positives to explore. A multi-purpose park could encourage older riders to start businesses in the area which cater to the younger crowd. The city could also bring in experienced riders to teach lessons and safety to a younger “generation.” The opportunities are vast.
It is all at our fingertips, we just need to get on board. After all, if we build it, they will come, but it has to be built with input from those who will use it.
