Mayor Eric Adams’ announcement of a $24 million initiative to construct four new skateparks, including a flagship 40,000-square-foot facility in Mount Prospect Park, has been met with resistance from Brooklyn residents. The project, in collaboration with skateboarding legend Tony Hawk’s Skatepark Project, aims to transform the park into one of the largest skateboarding venues on the East Coast. However, local community group Friends of Mount Prospect Park has vocally opposed the plan, citing concerns over the loss of valuable greenspace in a city already starved for natural environments.
Critics argue that the construction, which would convert about 12% of the park’s area into concrete skateboarding space, contradicts efforts to preserve and expand urban green spaces amid escalating environmental challenges. Hayley Gorenberg and Benjamin Lowe, co-chairs of the opposition group, stress the importance of consulting the community before making decisions that significantly alter the landscape of cherished local parks.
Proponents of the skatepark, including professional skaters and the Skatepark Project’s leadership, argue that the development will not only offer a dedicated space for skateboarders but also enhance the park overall by incorporating additional greenery. They emphasize the project’s potential to foster community, encourage physical activity among youth, and position New York City as a key destination for skateboarding on the East Coast.
