brooke@gilavalleycentral.net
THATCHER – The summer might be drawing to a close, but soon there will be even more places to play in Thatcher.
This year, the town of Thatcher hit it out of the park when it came to funding recreational areas and spent more than $260,000 on parks alone. It’s newest endeavor will increase the amenities at the splash pad park with the addition of a skatepark.
As Safford’s skatepark is set to open at the end of the month, Thatcher’s new bowl-themed skatepark is under construction and taking shape.
“I’m pleased with what’s turned out,” Thatcher Town Manager Terry Hinton said. “We’re starting to pour the concrete.”
At its July 19 meeting, Hinton told the Thatcher Town Council that the new park is peaking the interest of the community.
“You would be amazed how many people stop and ask what is going on,” he said.
The skatepark is scheduled to open in roughly six to eight weeks, just in time for the cooler weather.
“We are building it ourselves so there are no outside contractors or costs associated with the construction,” Hinton said. “We will spend about $75,000 in materials.”
The cost includes a $16,000 design fee to Spohn Ranch Skateparks, who’s tagline is, ironically, curves are meant to be carved not cut. After watching Spohn Ranch design and build Safford’s skatepark and having discussions with them concerning construction techniques, Thatcher decided the actual build was something it could handle in-house.
“The town is able to do things for the youth because the council has been very responsible with the town’s resources, and (I) feel taking care of our youth is very important,” Hinton said.
“It has been the goal of the council to do things for the youth of the Gila Valley. The town has made improvements to our parks, ball fields and added a neighborhood park. We added the splash pad, put grass on our ball fields and rebuilt the concession stand. There are plans to continue improving our existing park playgrounds.”
Located on Ballpark Road next to other town amenities such as the splash pad, playground and baseball field, the skate park is set to be an exciting addition to Thatcher’s landscape. The skatepark will be shaped like a swimming pool, with stairs and ramps.
Brooke Curley Photo/Gila Valley Central: The Thatcher Skate Park is already taking shape.
