Some people want their dream skate park to have a snake run. Others wish for amenities like public art, WiFi and shade. These are just some of the requests Montgomery County Parks has received from residents as planning begins for building five new skate parks.“Everyone who’s ever been to a skate park has an opinion,” said Darren Flusche, the county’s division chief for park planning and stewardship.
“I’m hoping one will open up closer to me,” Fruth said. She lives in Damascus, which will be closer to the Ovid Hazen Wells location.Skateboarder Maxwell Miller, 24, recently filled out the survey. He requested lights and obstacles, such as pipes, rails and ramps.“Skating is a healthy vice,” he said. “It’s a good way to get outside and get your mind off of stuff.”
After the injury, Besley stopped skating. But his inline skates, decorated with feminist and gay pride stickers, called his name again 16 years later. Now, he comes to Rockville for a dedicated space to skate and socialize — and he hopes the new parks will bring this kind of joy to other people.“It just brings me back to a simpler time,” he said. “I just feel like I can do anything.”