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Nampa Skate Park Closed Due to Vandalism - 08/23/07
(Thursday, August 23, 2007) The Roosevelt Skate Park has been closed due to vandalism. Over several months the park has been sprayed with graffiti several times, signs destroyed, trash cans destroyed, a port-a-potty set on fire, and a tree was broken in half. This not only costs tax payers money to repair the damage, but takes parks personnel away from other important projects.
Several weeks ago a temporary fence was put up around the park with signs warning the park would be closed if vandalism continued. Wednesday morning park employees found more graffiti spray painted in the park and the decision was made temporarily close the skate park.
“No one wanted to go to this drastic means to stop the vandalism, we know it ends up punishing the good youth who use the park along with a few who are doing the damage,” said Parks and Recreation Director Darrin Johnson. “But at some point we need to take some type of action and attempt to prevent the vandalism from continuing.”
“We are not sure how long the park will be closed at this point. We are evaluating what we will do next and will consider the costs of a surveillance system or a permanent fence that will be locked and unlocked each day,” said Johnson. “Our ultimate goal is that the youth will come together and realize what a wonderful resource the people of Nampa have provided and that they will take ownership in keeping it nice. I am confident if the Parks Department and the youth work together we can be successful in preventing vandalism,” added Johnson.
The City would be interested in meeting with youth who use this skate park to discuss ways of solving this problem long term. Those who would like to participate should call 468-5858.
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