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Palm Coast Residents Demand New Skate Park

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  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 5:34 GMT by The Daytona Beach News-Journal
      Locales: Florida, UNITED STATES

PALM COAST, FL - February 13th, 2026 - A groundswell of support from Palm Coast residents culminated in a passionate plea to the City Council yesterday, advocating for the construction of a new, state-of-the-art skate park. The demand, fueled by concerns over the inadequacy of the current facility, was presented alongside a petition boasting over 500 signatures, signaling a significant level of community engagement.

The existing Palm Coast Skate Park, originally constructed more than a decade ago, has become increasingly insufficient to meet the needs of the growing skateboarding, BMX, and scooter communities. Residents cite its limited size, outdated design, and deteriorating conditions as major drawbacks. What was once a vibrant hub for action sports is now seen as a hindrance to the progression of local riders and a potential safety hazard.

"It's not just about having a place to skate; it's about having a place to progress," explained Ben Miller, a 16-year-old resident who acted as a spokesperson for the local skateboarding contingent. "The current park doesn't offer the features needed for riders to learn new tricks or push their limits. It's cramped, and the obstacles are worn down. We need a park that can attract talent and foster a thriving action sports culture."

The call for a new skate park isn't solely about athletic pursuits. Multiple residents emphasized the broader benefits of providing safe and accessible recreational opportunities for the city's youth. With limited options for organized activities, many young people are left to find their own entertainment, sometimes leading to issues with loitering and unauthorized skateboarding in public spaces - a problem a dedicated skate park could alleviate.

Sarah Johnson, a local parent who spearheaded the petition drive, highlighted this point. "A new skate park isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a necessary investment in our community's youth. It provides a positive outlet for energy, encourages physical activity, and fosters a sense of belonging," she stated. "It also provides a designated, safe area, which will reduce the number of kids skateboarding in parking lots and on sidewalks, where they pose a risk to themselves and pedestrians."

Several residents proposed potential locations for the new facility. Popular suggestions included areas adjacent to the Palm Coast Community Center, leveraging existing infrastructure and parking, or within one of the city's newer parks, such as Matanzas Preserve Park or Indian Trails Preserve Park, offering ample space for expansion and integration with existing green spaces. The latter options would align with the city's increasing emphasis on parkland development and outdoor recreation.

The scope of the proposed park is also being discussed. Many advocates envision a "plaza-style" skate park, emulating the designs of popular, modern facilities seen in cities across the nation. These parks typically feature street-style obstacles like rails, ledges, stairs, and manual pads, mimicking urban environments, alongside transition features like bowls and ramps, catering to a wider range of skill levels and disciplines. Furthermore, many are advocating for features accommodating BMX and scooter riders, broadening the park's appeal.

City Council members responded positively to the residents' presentation. Councilman David Rice assured the crowd that their concerns were being taken seriously. "We hear you loud and clear," he said. "We recognize the importance of providing recreational opportunities for our residents, especially our young people. We're committed to exploring all viable options for funding and location, and we'll work with city staff to develop a comprehensive proposal."

The city is expected to conduct a feasibility study to assess potential locations, estimated costs, and funding sources. Options being considered include utilizing Parks and Recreation impact fees, applying for state grants, and exploring potential public-private partnerships. A preliminary proposal, outlining potential designs and a timeline for construction, is anticipated to be presented to the public within the next few months. The hope is that construction could begin as early as late 2027, providing Palm Coast's action sports enthusiasts with a facility that truly meets their needs and contributes to a vibrant community.