Originally organized in 2001 and scheduled to open this July, the Olney Skate Park’s construction is finally underway and will become the first county-owned skate park designed as a positive outlet for skaters of all ages.

The process began in 2002 when Sherwood High School students sent a petition to the Planning Board requesting that a skate park be built in Olney. As a result of extensive planning and fundraising, a 14,000 square foot concrete skatepark is being constructed at Olney Manor Park. Says junior Blake Doty, “I’m looking forward to skateboarding somewhere legally, without being hassled by cops.”

Friends of the Olney Skate Park, a nonprofit organization led by Olney resident Jimena Ryan, presented a petition of 1,745 signatures to the County Council. In May 2004, the County Council estimated that $350,000 would be needed for the construction of the park. Contributions of local businesses, individuals and a grant through a state bond bill helped meet the requisite.

“Kids are putting themselves at risk ... and businesses were not too thrilled about [kids] skating on private property, and they were being harassed and fined,” says Mrs. Ryan. “They needed a place to go and there wasn’t a facility for them to go to.”

Adds Doty, “I’ve probably been caught by the cops three or four times where they sat me down and lectured me,” who skates in Rockville, Bethesda and D.C.—“basically places where you get hassled by cops the most.”

The park initially planned to open last year, but was delayed because of late design changes. Originally it was designed as a modular park consisting of free-standing ramps and rails; skaters then reconsidered for a concrete facility, resembling an empty swimming pool with varying elements. Requirements for admission into the park include paying entrance fees or buying season passes and wearing safety equipment.

“I’m excited for the new skate park,” says Doty. “It should be lots of fun.”