Easthampton Skatepark Initiative Seeks Donations to Complete Project
EASTHAMPTON — The Easthampton Skatepark Initiative, a group of volunteer parents and skateboarders, is seeking donations to raise the final $85,000 needed to construct a new, all-wheels skatepark in Easthampton.
Since 2019, the initiative has worked closely with city officials to identify a suitable location and secure funding for a new skatepark to replace the David MacDonald Memorial Skatepark, which was dismantled in 2004.
“This is a great project for the city of Easthampton, and it will provide an important alternative to organized sports,” Mayor Salem Derby said. “I have supported these efforts since 2005, when the initial plans for Millside Park included a skatepark.”
The skatepark project is an official city of Easthampton initiative in partnership with the Parks and Recreation Department and Commission. In September 2024, the final location was selected at Millside Park, behind the basketball court. Since then, the project has secured major public funding, including $250,000 from the city’s Community Preservation Act and a $425,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities program.
“Our goal is to raise at least $60,000 by the end of June,” said Eddie Comini, an original member of the Easthampton Skatepark Initiative. “The park will be medium-sized and offer opportunities for beginners to learn and experienced riders to demonstrate their skills. If we exceed our fundraising goal, we may be able to expand the park or add features such as lighting or shade structures.”
The initiative has already received financial support and commitments from Monadnock Community Investments, Canon Real Estate, Easthampton Skate Club, and Greenfield Savings Bank.
Additional donations can be made online through the Easthampton Skatepark Initiative’s fiscal sponsor, Flywheel Community Arts Inc., a local nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible. To learn more or to donate, visit easthamptonskatepark.com.
