Skatepark gets OK

SIKESTON -- Area skaters will soon have a city skatepark.

During their regular meeting Tuesday, City Council members unanimously approved allocating space at the Sikeston Sports and Recreation Complex to locate a skatepark as recommended by the city's Park Board.

"They have raised money on their own. They have enough that they can build a small starter facility," said Jiggs Moore, parks division director. "The Park Board has talked about this project for a number of years; it has been in our Five-Year Plan for a number of years."

The estimated cost for the 80-by-30 foot concrete pad with five features is $24,404.60, according to Moore.

"That will get them started. Of course, they would like to have something bigger but that's what they can afford at this point," he said. "My understanding is they're happy with that as a starter."

Councilman Jerry Pullen said skateboard enthusiasts have done well in raising money for their park.

"Our insurance carrier has an expert, if you will, who deals with skateparks and he'll work with us on the rules and signs," Moore said.

"We're really excited," said Cindy Taylor of the Sikeston Skate Committee. "I'm just so happy and I appreciate everything you have done."