DIY skate parks are more than just concrete and obstacles; they’re the lifeblood of many skate communities. These spaces represent a unique blend of creativity, hard work, and the spirit of skateboarding. From uneven quarter pipes to weathered bowl corners, DIY parks are where skaters connect, create, and push the boundaries of the sport. They serve as meeting points, hangout spots, and a haven for self-expression within the skateboarding world.
DIY Skatepark Header
Contrary to popular belief, these parks don’t magically appear. They’re the result of countless hours of labor, dedicated individuals, and the investment of both time and money. The COVID-19 pandemic brought with it a unique opportunity, as resources became more available, leading to a surge in DIY park construction worldwide. To highlight the incredible efforts and creativity behind these projects, we reached out to several notable DIY parks to showcase their stories.
Before you visit any of these spots, remember to show respect. Clean up after yourself, dispose of trash properly, and avoid touching anything that appears to be drying or under construction.
Mosquito Beach (LIC DIY) – Queens, NY
Mosquito Beach
What was the land like before it became a skate park?
It was a typical dead-end in NYC, with signs of previous nightlife. According to Pat Smith, the creator, it was not uncommon to find discarded items, from roses to undergarments. It was a typical urban scene.
Where did the name “Mosquito Beach” come from?
The name is quite literal. As Pat jokes, visiting during summer will explain it all—bring bug spray!
Was permission obtained to build the park?
No permission was sought. The build started with small changes, like adding a jersey barrier to the end of the dead-end. The neighbors have been accommodating, especially as the space is now cleaner and maintained.
Mosquito Beach Skate Spot
Have there been conflicts with law enforcement or the public?
Surprisingly, the main challenge has come from other builders who, despite being welcomed and supported, tried to claim ownership of the space. Pat emphasizes the importance of empowering others. He believes that witnessing the possibilities and participating in the creation process can inspire and motivate people.
How has the project been funded?
Initially, Pat personally covered the costs and relied on the generosity of others. A ledger is now maintained to keep track of donations and expenses. They have been able to allocate resources to other DIY projects as well.
Mosquito Beach Detail
Is the location kept secret?
Pat doesn’t provide exact locations, opting for hints instead. The spot is public, and the goal is to share it with those who contribute to it.
Why start this project?
The project stems from the same desire that drives CODA and other similar projects—giving back to the community. Creating and skating with friends, and sharing it with new ones, is at the core of the project.
– Pat Smith
FERAL CAT COVE – Portland, OR
Feral Cat Cove Skatepark
How was the location chosen?
The location was discovered by Josh Terlesky and his friend Red, near where Josh lived. The initial spot already had some features, like a parking block adapted to a curb and a natural boulder. The park grew organically over time, with new additions and improvements.
Where did the name “Feral Cat Cove” originate?
The name reflects the area’s large population of feral cats. Josh works closely with a local feral cat coalition, helping stray cats find homes.
Feral Cat Cove Bowl
How much time has been invested in the park?
Construction began after Josh was laid off in March 2020, with weekly builds, often lasting eight hours. The project has been a collaborative effort, thanks to many hands and consistent support.
What were the financial costs and how was the park funded?
Initial funding came from government stimulus checks. The project now relies on crowd donations and t-shirt sales. They emphasize there’s no end goal, as long as the city allows them to exist, they will continue to improve and expand.
Feral Cat Cove Detail
Have there been any unusual incidents at the park?
Yes, the area has had its share of interesting moments, with meth RVs, people living on the bike path, and other odd encounters.
What is the policy on drinking at the park?
The rules are simple: Take care of your trash and respect the neighborhood.
– Josh Terlesky
CHERRY BRK – Phillipsburg, NJ
Cherry BRK Skate Spot
What was the land’s past before becoming a DIY park?
The land was reportedly an old brick depot that closed during WWII. It became a massive warehouse that burned down in 2012.
How much time went into creating the skatepark?
About 20 people worked on the park every Sunday during the summer of 2020.
How was the build financed?
They raised approximately $1300 through crowdfunding. The team has more ambitious plans for the future.
Cherry BRK Skaters
Is the location openly shared?
The location is known amongst the local skate scene.
Have there been any issues at the park?
The location has seen some transient activity, with people living and cooking in the area, requiring skaters to be vigilant.
Cherry BRK Bowl
Anything else to add about CHERRY BRK?
The project highlights the local skate community’s collaborative spirit, with everyone coming together to contribute.
– Zack Danna
NATIONAL DIY – Milwaukee, WI
National DIY Skatepark
How did you choose the spot?
The area was known as “Bums Nest” due to its history of being a gathering place for drug users. It featured some of the best slappy curbs in the city. The idea to build a transition on a dilapidated wall turned the place into a skate spot.
What was the land used for before the DIY park?
It was a neglected park & ride area. The first step was cleaning up the area, which included the removal of discarded needles, condoms, and trash.
National DIY Curved Wall
Did you have to get permission?
The build started without formal permission. The team has since maintained the area, improving its safety and integrating it with nearby businesses.
How much time and effort has been spent?
The build has been ongoing since the beginning of May 2020. While a core group of five or six people leads the project, many locals have contributed over time.
National DIY Features
How was the project funded?
Initially, it was funded out of pocket, but they switched to crowdfunding, meeting their $1000 goal in just two weeks.
Have there been any incidents at the park?
Yes, some incidents, including fights and some shady activity have occurred. However, the team keeps the park as safe as possible.
What are the rules about drinking at the DIY?
As Dylan Shanahan states, “It’s Milwaukee”.
– Dylan Shanahan
WERNSIDE – Leeds, UK
Wernside DIY Skatepark
How did you pick the location?
The location found them. The crew had been building spots for years, and this particular spot seemed ideal to develop together with the local skatepark, while avoiding having their work demolished quickly.
What’s the origin of the name?
The park is named after the German director Werner Herzog. The name came about during a casual conversation while building. The team even created a shrine with photos of him.
Wernside Bowl
Have there been conflicts with the authorities?
While the locals are generally supportive, the team has faced challenges with landowners who often destroy ramps built without their permission, even in seemingly unused land.
How has the build been funded?
The project started with support from the local park, including concrete and blocks. Donations of concrete and other materials have also come from various sources, including a few surprising corporate sponsorships.
Wernside Ramp
Is the location a secret?
No, the location is public. The team encourages anyone who contributes to the build to visit. They even share the location on social media.
What are the rules about drinking at the DIY?
The more the better, according to Adam Jefferson.
Wernside Detail
Why start this project?
Adam explains that for skaters, it’s a dream scenario—a spot with free space and materials where they can build what they want without interference. The benefits of building DIY parks are endless, and every contribution enriches the experience.
– Adam Jefferson
BISHOP – Detroit, Michigan
Bishop DIY Skatepark
How was the location chosen?
The spot picked itself. It was located right behind Northwestern High School and had been there all along. It quickly became the next build for those looking for a new place to express their creativity.
What was the land before becoming a DIY park?
The land was an old cement pad that used to be a roller/ice skating rink adjacent to an abandoned rec center, a Detroit classic.
Bishop Skate Spot
Did you have to get permission to build?
The build started without formal permission. However, the local parks department is now involved and assisting the crew in making the project long-lasting and sustainable.
How much time and effort has been spent on the project?
The park has been in development since April 2020. The park is unique because every obstacle has been built by a different crew, including young and older skaters, and even rollerbladers.
Bishop Detail
How much has been spent on the project?
Funding has come from various sources. Community Push contributed $1,200 to build a quarter pipe and a three-sided bank to curb. The team makes efficient use of backfill, reinforcements, blocks, and coping.
Is there a need for more funding?
As Derrick Dykas says, “Who doesn’t need money? And what DIY is ever finished?”.
What are the rules on drinking?
Derrick doesn’t set the rules, nor is it his job to enforce them.
– Derrick Dykas
DIY skate parks are a testament to the passion and resilience of the skateboarding community. These spaces offer a place to skate, build, connect, and express creativity in unique and inspiring ways. They showcase the power of collective effort and the importance of giving back to the skate community. Remember to always be respectful when visiting these spaces, and appreciate the hard work that goes into creating them.
