Biddeford, Maine’s Beloved Skate Park Closes After 24 Years, and Locals Demand a Fresh Start

This epic skate park sitting pretty in Biddeford for over 20 years is now closed, according to WGME. 

Biddeford Parks and Recreation Director Lisa Thompson told the news station that normally a volunteer-made skate park is not going to be able to last more than 10-15 years. And it is now 24 years old!

"This park has lived its life, and we’re eager to move forward with a new one," Thompson said.

Sadly, there wasn't much notice for the skaters though because the closure was very unexpected. Locals are now asking, "What comes next?"

As per the article, one passionate Biddeford resident, Owen Bernsee thinks the city should be responsible for replacing and maintaining the skate park saying, "They didn’t maintain it, which led to its closure. The city should definitely build a new skate park and take better care of it this time."

Thompson called the skate park a "dump" and said it was " dangerous to use," according to WGME.

Last week about 40 skaters went to a community meeting to talk about the park's closure. While there, they shared their ideas.

Thompson told them that the city recognized the passion for the skate park and is committed to working with everyone to figure this out, as per the article.

She said, "We see the need for a new skate park and are happy to work with the community on this."