The West Shore Skate Spot Groundbreaking

 The West Shore Skate Spot Groundbreaking

The groundbreaking ceremony for the West Shore Skate Spot took place on June 11, 2022. 

Remarks, Land Acknowledgement by Pickering Mayor David Ryan, followed by Groundbreaking Ceremony (approx 7 mins)

The day got off to an early start with Ramp 2 Rail setting up a 4ft mini ramp. I showed up and picked litter as usual, but my task was made easier by a random gentleman who was out for a walk and picking litter as he went.

While the mini was being set up, City Staff were setting up games and a DJ booth.  I asked 'Where's the Mobile Skatepark?'  Well, someone had parked the truck and trailer and taken the keys. (It eventually showed up). Councillors Brenner, Pickles and Butt showed up as well as Arnold & Richard who have been the city staff behind this project. 

Neighbours began coming to check out the event and a bunch of kids came out from the neighbouring townhouse complex to skate. ('no skaters here' my ass NIMBY) 

The Mayor gave his remarks and it was nice to hear all the positives about skateparks come from someone else. My kids wandered into the photo op. I had my own golden shovel and had everyone sign it. 

Ramp 2 Rail crushed it with FREE Tim Hortons and pizza vouchers from Dominos.  Local Skater, Phil, gave an impromptu skate lesson. Kris from Progression Skate Co. brought good vibes and Guru Energy Drinks. 

See more from the day in the photos below.

So Much Coffee

Better Late Than Never.

Me and my Shovel

That guy can skate?

The Summer Crew who sets up the park for You

Recreating a pic with Councillor Maurice Brenner. He has supported this project since the beginning.

The Shovel is now hung in a spot of honor as well as the Progression Deck

Arnold, Marissa, Maurice, Mayor Ryan, David, Me, My Groms, Sue and Richard. I put my dirt in a jar.  Due to the Severe Storm the hit Ontario, the skatepark company has been delayed with the project in Ottawa. Once Ottawa is complete, they're coming to Pickering. July-August build so the park should be open end of summer/back to school. I'm as eager to skate this as anyone, probably more. I saw design specs today.

So the Day was a success with a few people telling me they had heard remarks about how great this skate spot will be for the local community. One Local NIMBY threw some dirty looks our way as she dragged her dog along Bayly. This is happening, L!