Fort Smith skate park vandalized weeks after reopening

The Town of Fort Smith says the community’s skate park needs to be repaired again just weeks after reopening.

The facility located behind the town’s recreation centre had been closed for the last few years.

The town announced that it was reopened on August 30, thanks to the efforts of some local businesses and residents who had helped to fix it.

Just two weeks later, however, the town said the skate park was vandalized, resulting in significant damage.

“This is the last post anyone wants to make right now, especially on the heels of the good news story that saw a multitude of community volunteers donate their time, money, and effort to making this skate park safe and open for all,” a Facebook post from the town stated.

While the town works to repair the park it has requested that residents use the space “respectfully and safely.”

“This kind of destruction impacts everyone, so we all hope that next time, better choices will be made,” the town added.

Several comments under the post suggested the town should install video surveillance to prevent a similar situation from reoccurring.

Damage ‘disheartening’

Brendan Tsetso, one of the residents that helped fix the skate park in August, called the current situation “unfortunate.”

“It was nice to see kids in there riding their bikes,” Tsetso told Cabin Radio on Saturday. “I went a couple of times with my son when it was opened and hopefully it can reopen soon.”

Town councillor Dana Fergusson said vandalism of the skate park was “disheartening” for the youth who regularly utilize the space.

“There was so much community spirit and collaboration that took place to get the skate park up and running,” Fergusson said.

“I hope that those involved recognize the impact that they have when they vandalize such equipment and it ruins it for all community members who will use it.”