Editor’s Note: This story is part of a month-long series that highlights 31 ideas included in the “Mansfield Rising” plan. The 67-page document was created by 15 local leaders after attending the South by Southwest Conference last March in Austin, Texas.
Idea 22: Develop a skate park
Mansfield, as many similar small towns, has difficulty keeping young people engaged in the community.
Young people need to be included in the community and feel their contributions make a difference, the Mansfield Rising plan states.
In an effort to make downtown feel welcoming to all, input from a diverse group of people ensures that multiple perspectives are heard, instead of the voices of a select few. Young people use green space as much as anyone but oddly, they are rarely included in the process of placemaking.
Allowing young people to be involved in the formation of spaces, businesses and activity planning will provide a sense of investment.
One city that engages young people effectively is Fremantle, Australia. Fremantle Esplanade Youth Plaza is a gathering space designed specifically for and with youth, while a skate park serves as the center of its design.
Join us for a live discussion of the “Ideas of March” series and the “Mansfield Rising” plan on Thursday, April 4.
• Old Westinghouse Area
• Northwest corner of Fourth and Bowman Streets (former school site)
• Maple Lake Park
• Cline Avenue (former school site)
• Adjacent to a pool and/or community center
Cost: $135,000
Partners: Architects, local artists, construction companies, community youth, and organizations that serve youth. Ohio Dreams could offer design insight as they built an indoor skate park.
Timeline: Six-12 months
