By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – A new skate park is set to become the heart of the local action sports community in Pittsboro. Pro scooter rider Jon Reyes and I took a walk around the park on Thursday. During our conversation, Jon offered his insights into its design, features, and the positive impact it can have on both seasoned skaters and newcomers alike. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on Saturday, September 20 at 10 am.
Part 1 of this series: Jon Reyes checks in: Embracing Pittsboro’s new skate park
The Vision Behind the Park
The new skate park in Pittsboro has been designed to cater to riders of all skill levels. Jon Reyes, a prominent figure in the scooter riding community, emphasizes the thoughtfulness behind the park’s layout. “Even though this is technically considered a smaller park, there’s a lot of creativity in the design,” Reyes states. He praises the variety of features that allow for multiple lines and tricks, encouraging riders to explore their creativity.
The park’s design includes ramps, quarter pipes, and unique structures that cater to both beginners and pros. “You can hit the same ramp depending on your level,” Reyes explains, noting how the park accommodates diverse skill sets. This inclusivity is vital, as it fosters a welcoming environment for newcomers who may feel intimidated by more advanced riders.
Features That Inspire
One of the standout features of the park is its variety of ramps and structures. Reyes highlights the quarter pipes at each end of the park, which provide opportunities for speed and height. “These ramps are perfect for anyone looking to challenge themselves,” he says. The park also includes creative elements like hips and grind boxes that encourage riders to push their limits and experiment with new tricks.
Reyes points out the importance of these features in building a community. “It’s not just about riding; it’s about connecting with others and sharing experiences,” he notes. The park’s design promotes interaction among riders, making it a space where friendships can blossom and skills can be honed.
A Community Hub
Beyond the physical structures, Reyes discusses the park’s potential to serve as a community hub. He reflects on his own experiences growing up in a diverse skate culture in New York, where skate parks were places of personal growth and social interaction. “Everything that I am was designed in the community of a skate park,” he shares. “It’s where you learn to communicate, challenge yourself, and build relationships.”
The new Pittsboro skate park is poised to have a similar impact. Reyes envisions it as a space where young people can develop confidence and character while engaging in a sport that emphasizes individual growth. “It’s you versus you here,” he explains, highlighting the personal challenges that come with mastering new tricks.
The Importance of Events
As the park prepares for its grand opening, Reyes expresses a desire for future events that can further unite the community. “I want to see competitions, demos, and gatherings that bring people together,” he says. These events can serve as a platform for skaters to showcase their skills and connect with sponsors, ultimately fostering a vibrant action sports culture in Pittsboro.
Reyes believes that competitions can motivate skate park users to push their limits and inspire newcomers to join the sport. “It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and excited to participate,” he states. He sees that the potential for growth and collaboration within the community is immense, and the skate park is the perfect catalyst for that change.
Safety and Etiquette
During our conversation, Jon also emphasized the importance of safety and etiquette among riders. He encourages newcomers to observe and learn from more experienced skaters before jumping in. “Building relationships is crucial,” he advises. “Introduce yourself, see what others are trying, and be respectful of their space.”
For spectators, Reyes suggests maintaining a safe distance from the action to avoid accidents. “A good rule of thumb is to stay about 10 feet away,” he notes, ensuring that both riders and onlookers can enjoy the park safely.
A Bright Future for Pittsboro’s Skate Community
With its thoughtful design, diverse features, and potential for community engagement, the park is set to become a cornerstone of local action sports culture. Jon Reyes’s insights highlight the park’s importance not only as a recreational space but also as a place for personal growth and community connection.
View on YouTube – Pro scooter rider Jon Reyes provides overview of new skate park in Pittsboro, NC – 9.18.25
Jon Reyes tours and discusses features of the new Pittsboro, NC skate park, emphasizing its accessibility for all skill levels.
00:16 Jon Reyes discusses riding features of the new skate park.
- The park offers ramps suitable for both beginners and pros, encouraging a variety of skill levels.
- Riders can approach the same ramp differently based on their experience, providing options for progression.
01:55 Jon Reyes highlights features and etiquette of the new skate park.
- The skate park features large quarter pipes for high jumps and speed.
- New riders are encouraged to observe and engage with others to learn skills.
03:28 Jon Reyes emphasizes dedication and relationship-building at the skate park.
- He highlights the importance of respect and sharing the space while learning tricks.
- Reyes shares personal experiences of spending weeks mastering tricks and prioritizing skateboarding over other commitments.
05:02 Jon Reyes discusses skate park features and his favorite tricks.
- He shares the challenge of mastering a nose manual trick while dealing with weather conditions.
- Describes the new skate park’s structures, particularly hips and creative features for skaters.
06:35 Jon Reyes praises the creative design of the new Pittsboro skate park.
- The park features innovative elements like a wall ride and grind box, encouraging creativity.
- Despite being smaller, meticulous planning makes the park enjoyable and reduces collision risks.
08:17 The new skate park in Pittsboro fosters community growth and personal development.
- It provides a unique environment for individuals to build confidence and interpersonal skills.
- The park allows skaters to challenge themselves individually, enhancing personal growth through self-competition.
10:09 Overview of spectator safety and park features for scooter riders.
- The park provides good visibility for spectators and parents wanting to watch their kids.
- A safe distance of about 10 feet is recommended for spectators to avoid accidents while riders perform tricks.
11:42 Social media boosts community support for new Pittsboro skate park.
- Media coverage highlighted local interest, influencing the park’s construction by showcasing demand.
- Suggestions for events aim to enhance community engagement through competitions and collaboration among action sports.