Hamilton’s Skate Park has been closed for the remainder of the season by the Town of Ponoka, due to what they say is extensive damage and repeated complaints from the public about gathering restriction violations.
“There has been a general lack of respect for the site by facility users,” said Andrew Jones, Town of Ponoka recreation coordinator in a news release dated Sept. 29.
The closure will also give town crews time to repair vandalism to the site, including graffiti and spray-painted profanity, damage to the fence, holes that were dug around the edges of the park, damaged and stolen signage and damaged garbage receptacles.
According to the release, the damage to the fence was likely caused by individuals attempting to gain access to the locked park after hours.
“Warnings have been given throughout the summer but that didn’t resolve the ongoing problems,” said Jones.
The town will make the repairs and consider how to best manage the operation of the site before reopening it next year, but warn if the vandalism continues, it may be closed again.
The town will reopen the park next year after repairs are completed, but warn that if vandalism continues the public may not be able to continue enjoying the park.
“If we see similar behavior next year, we will have to consider closing the facility again.”
The town will continue to work with the Ponoka RCMP and the town’s bylaw enforcement officer to monitor the site.