The skate park along the Riverwalk in Bradenton is in need of thousands of dollars in repairs.
Public Works Director Claude Tankersley said the skate park, which is only three years old, has erosion problems and needs to be fixed.
Along the bowl, the dirt that was once packed tightly along the edges is gone. For now, the bowl is structurally sound, but some are concerned if the erosion issues are not fixed soon, this could change.
City officials blame heavy foot traffic, bikes and the type of soil used for the problems. They’re now planning on spending $93,000 on improvements.
The dirt, grass and trees that currently surround the bowl will be replaced with concrete and a rubberized material.
Visitors said they’re shocked to hear the repairs are needed so soon, but happy to see work being done to save the park.
“I know that a lot of youth come out here and at least you know where the kids are,” said Lauren Spencer, who visits the skate park frequently with friends.
The repairs have been approved and work should be getting started soon.