About

Since June 2006, the Northfield Skateboard Coalition has been working to create a permanent skateboard park in Northfield, and in 2013 was recognized for its efforts with the Northfield Healthy Community Initiative (HCI) “Making a Difference” Award. Throughout the long process of securing a site for a skateboard park, the skateboarders have been models of civility and public engagement, attending numerous city meetings, respectfully advocating for their cause, and earning the respect of City officials and staff, neighbors of temporary skateboard parks, and members of the community at large.

Skateboarding provides young people with opportunities to participate in a demanding and rewarding physical activity, encourages healthy behaviors, and provides a sense of place and of belonging to a community. A skateboard park will:

• provide a public place for skateboarders to practice their skills that is safer and less disruptive than streets and sidewalks;
• serve the recreational needs of a population of youth not currently served by the City’s recreational facilities.;
• be a valuable investment in Northfield’s youth, and a recognition of the involvement of youth in the civic process and in the larger process of building and strengthening our community.

Members of the Northfield Skateboard Coalition receiving a $10,000 matching grant from Northfield HCI in 2006

Youth members of the Northfield Skateboard Coalition receiving the Northfield HCI Making A Difference Award in April 2013

Adult volunteers of the Northfield Skateboard Coalition receiving the Northfield HCI Making a Difference Award in February 2014
L to R: Dane Holzschuh, Isaiah Suarez, Spencer Fredrickson, Shay Canning, Cecilia Cornejo, Rob Hardy, Jane McWilliams