OWENSBORO, KY (WFIE) -
It's good news for skaters and BMX riders in Owensboro.
The Owensboro City Commission voted three to two to build a skate park in Owensboro.
Skaters and BMX riders aren't the only ones excited to see a new skate park. Brecks Bicycle Shop employee Adam Johnson says when the city reopened the Ben Hawes Mountain Bike Trails, business improved. Johnson expects the same effect with a new skate park.
"We've always sold BMX and we've done real well with it, but obviously, if there's somewhere that's openly and easily available more people are going to be out to try it. I would anticipate our sales to go up a little bit from it," Johnson said.
Johnson says the park is something Owensboro desperately needs.
"It's a good thing for kids to have somewhere to go and gets them off the streets," Johnson said.
The main location the city is looking at to build the new park is the corner of 9th and Allen, right next to the police station.
"It works out. There's a lot lower chance of things not going on that shouldn't be going on there," Johnson said.
City officials hope to decide on a definite location by mid October.
City Manager Bill Parrish says they will then, "Hold public meetings to get input on that. Select a design team. I think start construction next construction season."
"It's a good way to get people into the city," Johnson said.
Officials say the park will be made out of concrete so it will last longer than parks in the past.
City officials hope to start construction by the middle of next year.
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Johnson says the park is something Owensboro desperately needs.
