Over the weekend, Dallas became a little more rad as it welcomed a new skatepark into the metroplex.
“By the time we get finished today,” said the opening speaker at the ribbon cutting, “the cool factor in Garland will have increased exponentially”
As the first skatepark in Garland, Texas, “The Boneyard” covers 46,000 square feet in Rick Oden Park making it the second-largest skatepark in Texas.
Before the ribbon-cutting on October 22, the city had difficulty keeping excited skaters off the premises.
“One of the happiest people here today is Officer Sherry, who will no longer have to kick you out of here,” said Garland City Council Member Rich Aubin in the live stream of the ribbon cutting.
“As the day got closer, [skaters’] anticipation grew and grew… as more and more people began sharing their sneak peeks on Instagram with pics and videos, and YouTube, too,” said Garland BMX’n Sk8 shop owners Sarah Paris and Steve Farmer to The Dallas Express.
“There was actually discussion of like, do you think the park would be a bigger draw if we kept it closed?” joked Aubin.
The Boneyard, designed by SPA Skateparks, has multiple areas designed to cater to both beginner and veteran skaters alike. The beginner’s area is the first of its kind in Texas and is large enough to host community classes.
Additionally, there are various walkways and shaded areas designed for parents or tired skaters to watch others while they skate.
According to the Garland website, the new skate park is just “Phase 1 of the Rick Oden Park renovation” which was first approved as part of a bond package back in 2004.
“Good things come to those who wait, and this park is proof of that,” said Garland City Mayor Scott Lemay who credits Rich Aubin for seeing the project through.
“I know it will be greatly used,” continues Lemay. “I showed up here this morning early thinking I would have some time to quietly walk around… and there were already probably 50 people skating.”
Rick Oden Park will soon provide amenities like walking trails, a food truck park, shade pavilions, and restrooms. Additionally, the city hopes to design a walkable underpass that will connect Rick Oden Park with Central Park.
