REDLANDS >> Skatepark advocates have teamed up with the city to promote a plan to build a skatepark in Sylvan Park while attracting donors.
Members of Friends of Redlands Skatepark, a nonprofit raising funds for the construction of the skatepark, and city staff created a promotional video that will be aired on Redlands TV and shared through social media.
The video, which made its debut at the April 8 City Council meeting, features drawings of the skatepark’s conceptual design and interviews with Redlands families who frequent the Yucaipa skatepark.
“I want to point out all the kids you see (in the video) skating or riding their bikes are all Redlands residents,” Councilman Jon Harrison said at the council meeting. “They go to parks like that all the time and it’s really important to get this park in Redlands.”
Harrison, who has been working with advocates to raise funds, and Mayor Paul Foster are featured in the video, which will be viewed at a fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 23 at Sylvan Park.
The family-friendly event, “I Want a Skatepark,” will be hosted by FORS and the city. It will feature open skate and ride sessions, live music, food and children’s activities.
Members of FORS and another group, Sk8 P.A.R.K. have been working to raise funds for the skatepark, which was approved more than 10 years ago.
In June, the council approved the conceptual design for the 15,000-square-foot skatepark. The plan is to build the park in two phases.
The council in 2013 pledged $200,000 in matching funds from the Palmetto Grove sale proceeds for the skatepark.
RELATED: Redlands skatepark gets major donation from Tony Hawk Foundation
“Since that time several measurable steps have been made toward making the skatepark a reality,” said Tim Sullivan, assistant director of the Quality of Life Department. “However, with an estimated total project cost of approximately $790,000 additional fundraising is needed.”
Much of the city-contributed funds have been used to hire the skatepark designer, Upland-based California Skateparks, and conduct the environmental review.
Friends of Redlands Skatepark has raised nearly $50,000 toward the skatepark, including a $25,000 grant from the Tony Hawk Foundation.
RELATED: Photos of Redlands skatepark’s design
Mike Gardner donated $50,000 toward the skatepark in 2006.
For more information visit FORS’ Facebook page.
