In September, the Town of Fountain Hills Community Services Department was awarded the prestigious Grand Plaque in the 2022 National Gold Medal Awards for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. Maintaining excellence means continual renovation and upgrades to the community parks. This gold medal standard can be seen in the town's parks and services.
One of the Town Council approved upgrades Community Services is undertaking in 2023 is the renovation of the Desert Vista Skatepark. The skatepark is a popular amenity within the town's park system for people of all ages. The skate park, installed in 2007, has more than 15 years of use and exposure to the elements, causing it to increase safety concerns for the users significantly. The new and improved design ensures usage by skaters and all-wheeled sports, including BMX, scooters, mountain bikes, and roller blades/skates.
A community input session was held at the Community Center, and 25 public/skatepark community members attended to review the current skatepark conditions and share suggestions for improvements. Attendees were current Fountain Hills residents ranging from 8 to 48 years old. Community Services sent a subsequent survey via social media, receiving 90 responses offering suggestions and support for a new skatepark design.
The suggestions included adding a pump track, a skate 'bowl,' and improved ramps. Other design ideas presented included requests for additional features to allow beginner, intermediate and advanced users a complete experience.
The skatepark upgrade is expected to be completed in June 2023 with a budget not to exceed $731,640.