Dubuque Skate Boarders Asking for New Park

Skate Boarders in Dubuque are asking city leaders to build another skate park. Boarders say they need another place to show off their skills.   The city already has two skate parks. One at Comiskey Park. The other sits behind McAleece Field near the Mississippi River.  The problem, skate boarders say, both parks are on the city's east side. They say there needs to be another park on the west end.

25-year-old Ben Kahle skates at McAleece Park as often as he can.

He likes that it's legal there, as opposed to city streets or private property.

Kahle said, "I have run into cops a few times. I have gotten a ticket her and there."

He loves this park, but says it's outdated. And for younger skaters, this park is hard to get to.

Kahle said, "it's not that it's unsafe down here it's just that it's inconvenient for parents especially since the majority of the kids live in the center of town."

Kahle is just one of dozens of skaters asking city leaders to build a new park.

Dubuque Leisure Services Manager, Marie Ware said, "It can cost anywhere from $200, 000 up to a million dollars. It kind of depends on how big it is and what you determine you want to do. "

Directors say they will consider several options. That includes renovating the current parks, or building a new skate plaza.

Kahle said, "it's a good outlet for those who want to do something creative that's not a team sport. That's why I do it, you know?