In the works: A skatepark in Fort Plain

The idea for a new skatepark in Fort Plain and the surrounding communities is nothing new to Ryan Santore. He’s been the driving force behind a new skateboard project that has been in the works for about 2-3 years. More recently, Ryan has been gaining support in the community along with Fort Plain Mayor, Pat Hanefin. Ryan has even created a Go Fund Me page that he hopes will help with funding the project along with other funding opportunities specifically for skateparks.

Skateparks are community-centered hubs for all ages

Why is Fort Plain a great place for a skatepark? With the closest skatepark more than 40 miles from Fort Plain, it’s the perfect location not only for the village, but for the surrounding communities in Herkimer and Montgomery counties. For the towns and villages in this central area along the Mohawk River, a skatepark would bring with it lots to do for both kids and adults.

Skateboarding photo courtesy of Ryan Santore

Quick to point out a few of the many benefits that a skatepark would bring, Ryan emphasized, “skating gives kids of all ages fun activities to learn and develop skills. Additionally, with the level of interest in this initiative, a skatepark will serve as a gathering place for both residents and visitors. There would be opportunities to host competitions and events for skaters of all ages ranging from beginner to advanced.”

A vision for making a local skatepark a reality

“I can see something for every level of experience. We’d like a skatepark that would serve beginners up through advanced levels. Right now, it’s hard to find skateparks for beginners—many of the parks that we’ve visited in the Mohawk Valley are intermediate to advanced. We want kids to have an opportunity to start skating and then grow in experience and skill. Currently, it takes a drive up to an hour in each direction just to get to the nearest park.”

Ryan is currently pursuing a Go Fund Me fundraising until there’s official approval from the town planning board. With approval, there are a number of grant and additional funding opportunities available for the skatepark project to see it through to completion. Ryan adds, “I’m looking forward to bringing the project and all that it could mean to community to the next town planning board meeting.”