Montclair, NJ – Skate Essex, the non-profit organization supporting skateboarding for all in Northern New Jersey announces the “Push for the Park Rally”, starting at 11:30AM on May 1st at Watchung Plaza in Montclair and ending at Rand Park on North Fullerton Avenue, the site of Montclair’s temporary skatepark at noon where the speaking program will take place. This community-driven groundswell rally is focusing on establishing a permanent skatepark in Montclair. Members of the skating community, local officials and eager parents and kids will be speaking at the rally, with music curated by Terry’s Serendipity Cafe.
“Montclair has taken a great first step to allow kids of all ages to enjoy skateboarding by opening up two tennis courts at Rand Park. ‘The Courts’ as the skaters call it, have become an oasis for our local skaters. Now we are pushing to establish a permanent skatepark in Montclair, with everything the skaters need to learn and enjoy skateboarding safely” says Paul King, Founding Board Member of Skate Essex. “The Courts are just the beginning.” he added.
“We are so excited that Montclair has the vision to be forward-thinking and support a permanent skatepark,” says Antonello Terrana, Montclair High School Senior ‘21 and President of the MHS Skate Club. “The kids and I want to leave a legacy where Montclair is known far-and-wide as THE PLACE to skateboard in New Jersey. We can’t wait!”
“Montclair is fortunate to have an overwhelming number of kids and parents that support skateboarding as a lifestyle and a sport in this town. I believe that it can be yet another differentiator for Montclair – one that adds value to the community at-large and enhances quality of life. I stand with Skate Essex to help shift this dialogue from verbal support to actual planning and investment.”, said Peter Yacobellis – Montclair Councilor-At-Large.
“It has been a pleasure first helping bring to life and now watching this skatepark thrive. I continue to work with my colleagues on the Council to find a way to help create a permanent skatepark here in town. This has been such a great way for kids to form friendships and be outdoors and be active. It makes me happy to see so many people enjoying it.”, said Second Ward Councilor Robin Schlager
Music, speeches and a whole lot of skating will be happening on Saturday, May 1. Come help support permanent skateparks in Montclair.