The Cincinnati Recreation Commission (CRC) officially opened a brand‑new skatepark Thursday morning in the Camp Washington neighborhood, providing a safe, inclusive space for the city’s growing skate community. The 12,000‑square‑foot facility, built at a cost of $950,000, features a variety of ramps, rails, a bowl, and distinctive Cincinnati symbols such as the classic wishbone “C” and a giant cheese coney.
Community roots and advocacy
The park is the result of years of grassroots effort by local skaters Evan Walker, Gabrielle Larkin and Randy Browne, who founded the Cincinnati Skatepark Project (CSP) in 2022. “There’s been a big skate community for decades; really there hasn’t really been a central skate park in the City of Cincinnati that the community could call home,” Walker said. Their mission was to create a safe, inclusive and sustainable environment for all types of riders.
Beyond skateboarders, the design accommodates BMX cyclists, scooter riders and rollerbladers, reflecting the CSP’s goal of serving a broad group of enthusiasts. “It’s not a skate park designed for one type of user, for one sport, it works for pretty much everybody and it’s what the community wanted to see,” said Randy Browne, the project’s design and build consultant.
Revitalization of Camp Washington
CRC spokesperson Chris Pike highlighted the skatepark as part of a larger revitalization effort in Camp Washington. Recent projects include work on the historic port area, the renovation of the old Crosley building and the expansion of the American Sign Museum. “There’s a lot going on. That’s really where you want to be,” Pike added, noting that the new park sits beside a pool, basketball court and playground within the Camp Washington Recreation area.
Opening ceremony
The ribbon‑cutting ceremony began at 11 a.m., followed by the first official free skate. Families, local officials and members of the skate community gathered to celebrate the milestone, which leaders hope will be the first of many similar projects across the Queen City.
With this addition, Cincinnati joins a growing number of Midwestern cities investing in multi‑use recreational facilities that promote active lifestyles, community engagement and safe spaces for youth and families. The park’s inclusive design aligns with the city’s broader commitment to provide wholesome, family‑friendly amenities that strengthen neighborhoods and uphold the values of faith, family and liberty.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
