Sykesville Mayor Has High Hopes for Skateboard Park

It may just be a concrete slab right now, but Sykesville Mayor Mike Miller is looking to upgrade the skateboard area at South Branch Park, making it an official place for local teens and adults to use.

“The park itself is already referenced in the Town's Master Plan,” said Miller. “That area is designated for outdoor recreation activities, which include skating, maybe hockey, and other ‘hard court’ activities.” 

He hopes to advance the idea by forming a committee to bring a new and improved skate park to fruition. 

Miller said he was trying to set up the committee’s first meeting for February, but it may be delayed until March.

So far, he said high school-age skaters, a skateboard business owner, a high school teacher, and some residents have all answered his call for committee members.

The committee will be responsible for helping to plan improvements for the area and assist in raising the funds for the project.

Miller added that the location isn’t likely to change in the planning process saying, “I don't know of any other location that is adequate or has been suggested. That concrete slab was the foundation for a building that collapsed some years ago. It is flat and smooth which makes it ideal for skating.”

Currently there aren’t any regulations that govern the use of the park, but Miller said this will change when the new additions are made.

Local teens began using the area as a skate park after a group of students asked the Town of Sykesville if they could start skating there. The town cleaned up the area and purchased additional insurance.

But now because of its popularity, it’s time for some improvements.  

“The Town is interested in having activities and areas for our youth to participate in outdoor recreation,” said Miller. “The hope is that this area can be improved and possibly contain more modern skate equipment for skaters to enjoy.” 

Find more information about joining the skateboard park committee, contact Mayor Mike Miller at 410-795-8959 or mmiller@sykesville.net.