Lakeshore Celebrates Opening of New, Relocated Optimist Park Skate Park

On Friday, June 26, members of Council, Lakeshore staff, and community members gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the new Optimist Park Skate Park in its new location. 

“The opening is about more than a skate park. It is a place where people of all ages can build confidence, develop skills, support one another, and express themselves. It belongs to the community, and reflects the energy, ideas, and support of the community members who helped see it come together.”
-Mayor Tracey Bailey

The project replaces the previous skate park with an updated design to better meet the community’s needs. As part of the approved 2025 Budget, Council invested $300,000 toward the redevelopment. More than 200 survey responses were received during the design process, providing valuable feedback that helped guide the final design and ensure the space reflects the preferences of the people who use it. Designed and built by the Canada Ramp Company, the skate park has also been relocated within Optimist Park in anticipation of the future expansion of County Road 22. The centralized location improves safety and access to the skate park while ensuring it’s not impacted by future road and infrastructure work along County Road 22.

The project also carries a meaningful legacy, honouring the late Blake Levenick of Belle River, whose passion and memory helped inspire the original skate park. Following Blake’s passing in 2004, his family and community members raised funds to help build the original facility in his honour. The memorial monument, originally installed in 2005, has been relocated to the new skate park, ensuring his lasting contribution to the local skateboarding community continues to be recognized. 

Background 

• The project had a total cost of $300,000, including: 
  • Skate Park Design/Build - $200,000 
  • Concrete Work - $65,000 
  • Site Amenities - $35,000 
• Read the full Report to Council.