Council to Discuss Skateboard Park With Public During Workshop Meeting Thursday Night

The recommended site for the proposed Ocean City skateboard park will be on the 500 block of Asbury Avenue, and city residents have the opportunity to learn all about the project Thursday night.

Councilman Michael DeVlieger proposed dedicating this week’s council workshop to discussing the project with the residents at Thursday night’s meeting at the library.

The workshop takes place Thursday night, April 3, 6 p.m.

According to Mayor Jay Gillian in his latest update, the intent is to “minimize the number of parking spots lost,” and the city is exploring other options for additional parking in the area.

“That location offers the best environment for the kids,” resident John Benino said during the public comment portion of Thursday night’s meeting. “You have a school on the west, a church on the south, businesses on another side and public buildings on the other side. You’re going to have minimal noise complaints and it’s a safe place for kids.”

Resident Greg Whelan skates and currently takes his children to Upper Township to skate. He eagerly anticipates a new park in Ocean City.

The original skateboard park at Sixth Street and Boardwalk was shut down in 2011. At the time, city officials cited safety concerns due to deteriorating equipment and the use of bicycles in the park were contributing factors.

It wasn’t long before skateboard enthusiasts in Ocean City began a movement to have the park returned to the city.

City officials approved plans for a new skateboard facility in July. The project would include resurfaced shuffleboard courts, the addition of pickleball courts on Sixth Street and the repaving of a municipal parking lot.

In his weekly Mayor’s Address, Gillian also discussed the Merion Park improvements.

To read his address in full, visit ocnj.us.