North Charleston, South Carolina – The City of North Charleston is seeking public input as it prepares to convert a longtime neighborhood playground into a modern skatepark.
After nearly three years of planning, officials are releasing the conceptual design for a new 15,000-square-foot skatepark in the Park Circle area. The facility would replace the J.V. Morris Playground and its ancient tennis courts, resulting in an all-wheels park for skateboarders, BMX riders, and rollerbladers.
The project is part of North Charleston’ continuous investment in Park Circle, which will serve as a significant recreational hub for both children and adults. According to project leaders, establishing a skatepark expands people’s outdoor exercise alternatives and encourages them to try new sports.
“This is intended for kids who enjoy alternative sports,” Adam MacConnell, the city’s Special Projects Director, explained. “Not every child plays soccer, football, baseball, or basketball. Other kids do different things, and we want to make sure we provide those possibilities for both kids and adults.”
The suggested design features intermediate-level ramps, rails, and obstacles, as well as a shaded pavilion, restrooms, and improved parking, as requested by homeowners thus far. City officials are also soliciting community opinion on whether to install fences and how to improve the park’s overall layout and operation.
According to MacConnell, the skatepark will increase access to recreational alternatives for residents who do not participate in competitive sports.
“Right now, to skate legally, you have to go down to Skate Charleston,” MacConnell told me. “That isn’t a community-level issue; you need a car to go there. You can ride your bike or skateboard to the park, meet up with buddies, and get steamy in the sun.”
MacConnell stated that the skatepark concept began after the city received a petition signed by over 300 people and 60 local companies, indicating strong community support.
The South Carolina Parks and Recreation Division has contributed roughly $30,000 to the renovation, with the remaining funding coming from tax increment financing.
A public feedback meeting will be place Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Park Circle Community Building. City officials want locals to attend and provide feedback on the design.
Construction is planned to start early next year.
