Madison Receives Some Good News on Skate Park Relocation Costs

MADISON, CT — There is some good news about the skate park project in Madison. Originally, officials were estimating the work to relocate the skate park to the Surf Club would cost $48,598 but some cost saving has reduced the cost to $29,880, officials said.

A special appropriation was approved by the Board of Finance at its Dec. 22 meeting, according to meeting minutes.

Here is a recap from those meeting minutes, which explains the cost savings:

Discuss and take action to approve a Special Appropriation request from the Beach & Recreation Department in the amount of $48,598.00 for the relocation of the skate park. First Selectman Thomas Banisch noted that in order to install the new road to the communications tower, the skate park has to be relocated.

Mr. Scott Erskine, recreation director, explained that the cost can reduced to $29,880 to cover the excavation and the paving. They have changed the design to restrict vehicles from entering the skate are so they will no longer need to install the fencing.

Mr. Joe MacDougald questioned if the work could wait until next year so it could be included in the budget during the regular budget process. Mr. Erskine noted that since this facility, which is utilized by a number of youths in Town was removed by the Town, he believes it should be replaced for the kids to be able to use the facility next spring and summer. He noted that the skate park equipment is currently being stored at the Surf Club.

Mr. Cochran, Youth and Family Services Director, noted that the skate park equipment had to be removed quickly and he also believes it would important to have this facility available for use in the spring and summer.

On motion made by Mr. Pudlin, and seconded by Mr. MacDougald, the Board voted unanimously to approve the request from the Beach & Recreation Department for a special appropriation of $29,880.00, amended from the original request for $48,598.00, for the relocation of the skate park.