MIDDLEPORT — A proposal to convert the inside of the Middleport swimming pool, closed for several years, into a skate park has been made by Brewce Martin of Skatopia to Middleport Village Council.
Martin met with Council at its Monday night meeting and explained his plan for a $100,000 renovation. He discussed some of the structural issues which he said would have to be addressed, the need for checking the drainage system which is in place to be sure it would drain rain water, the need for walkways and fencing around the pool, and possibly bracing of the structure which would be required. He indicated he would do the work involved in the conversion.
On display was a large drawing on hardboard showing the proposed design for a skate park “as it would look like from the air,” he said. He added that before anything was done, the public would have to be given the opportunity to contribute ideas for the design.
Martin agreed with village officials that it would take a lot of support in the community, but reminded officials that by converting it into a skate park that would “make it a community monument.” He added that it would take a massive amount of money to remove the old structure.
Martin described skating as a positive, individual sport which he felt would appeal to many, but also agreed that community interest would have to be determined before work on such a project could be started.
As for funding to support the project, he mentioned the Tony Hawk Fund and several other grants that might be available.
Mayor Michael Gerlach suggested to Martin that he come up with a list of possible grant opportunities. He also said that an engineer would have to come in and check out the stability of some parts of the structure.
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