Skateboard park grand opening planned

The city of Calabasas is shooting for an Oct. 28 grand opening of its new skate park, according to John Keisler, director of community services.

The skating facility will operate on a part-time basis, three to four hours daily, three days a week, on the basketball court of Gates Canyon Park.

The Calabasas City Council approved the project in July.

The park will begin with a three-month trial, after which it will be evaluated on its success and impact on the neighboring communities.

The new park, created for skateboarders and inline skaters, will actually be portable, with the ramps and other accessories being stored in containers when not in use.

In recent weeks, the skate park task force has been meeting often, making plans and ordering equipment.

"We’re working on schedules, rules, regulations, and membership cards," Keisler said.

As part of requirements set by the city council, the task force also has hired a noise consultant, who will monitor noise and sounds before and after the skate park opens, according to Keisler.

The skate park task force contains 12 members, including Keisler, Jeff Rubin, recreation services manager, and several parents and kids.

"Everyone’s positive," said Keisler about the project.

"We have some very dedicated volunteers that feel the youth need a place to skate. The program is needed," he said.

—Sharon Makokian