News Summary
Bennington, Vermont, will unveil a new skate park, featuring 16,000 square feet of skating facilities, on September 19. Funded through community efforts and town support, it aims to provide a safe recreational space for local skaters. The grand opening celebration promises skating demonstrations, live music, and food trucks, fostering community spirit and engagement. Designed by GRINDLINE Skateparks, with various elements for all skill levels, the park will be a hub for youth sports and local visitors, enhancing the area’s recreational offerings.
Bennington, Vermont is set to unveil its new skate park on September 19, 2025, with a grand opening celebration planned from 5 PM to 9 PM. This facility, covering 16,000 square feet, is anticipated to be one of the largest skate parks in the state, providing an essential recreational space for local skaters and the community at large.
The total investment for the skate park reaches just under one million dollars, with approximately $300,000 raised by community members through various fundraising efforts. An additional $300,000 was secured from town funding and the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The collaboration among local organizations, community members, and the Town of Bennington has been pivotal in bringing this project to fruition.
Designed and constructed by GRINDLINE Skateparks, which has built over 300 parks nationwide, this skate park features a classic concrete “snake run,” multiple bowls, and various elements suitable for skaters of all skill levels. Located off Depot Street near the Walloomsac Riverwalk trail, the skate park is within walking distance to downtown Bennington and local schools, making it highly accessible for residents and visitors alike.
Grand Opening Celebration
The grand opening will not only mark the official launch of the skate park but will also include skating demonstrations and live music performances, offering a festive atmosphere for attendees. Local food options will be available from various food trucks, and the Bennington Police Department will provide free treats from their Copsicle ice cream trailer.
Park Features and Regulations
The new skate park will come equipped with improved lighting, benches, and picnic tables to encourage community gatherings. However, certain regulations will be enforced to ensure safety and maintain a pleasant environment. Children under the age of 12 will be required to wear helmets at all times while skateboarding. Additionally, rules prohibit loitering, smoking, alcohol, and drug use on the premises, and younger children must be supervised by adults.
To heighten safety and security, surveillance cameras will be installed throughout the park. These measures are designed to provide a secure environment for all users, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the facility without concern.
Impact on the Community
Community leaders believe that the new skate park will significantly contribute to local growth and attract visitors from neighboring towns and states. The park enhances the recreational offerings in Bennington, promoting a healthy lifestyle and providing a safe space for youth engagement in sports.
Funding and Development Support
The skate park project showcases the strong community spirit in Bennington, with support from various funding sources, including the American Rescue Plan Act, Penny for Parks, and contributions from local organizations and residents. The collaborative efforts between the Town of Bennington and the volunteer skatepark committee have played a crucial role in the project’s success, demonstrating the importance of community involvement in local development initiatives.
As the opening date approaches, excitement builds among local skaters and community members alike, eager to see the culmination of their efforts take shape. The Bennington skate park stands to be not only a destination for recreational activity but also a hub for community interaction and enjoyment for years to come.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Bennington Banner: Skatepark Poised for Grand Opening
- Bennington Banner: Ribbon Cutting for New Skatepark
- WCAX: New Spot for Skaters in Southern Vermont
- Google Search: Bennington Skate Park
- Bennington Banner: Skatepark Progressing on Downtown Site
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Skateboarding
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
