A new skatepark is being built at the athletic field, along Pierce Avenue, behind the softball fields, with expected completion date of August 28, 2025. The flooding at the old athletic field damaged the old skatepark and meant that there needed to be a new location. The project also marks a major success for Riley Costello in his new capacity as Emergency Management Director.
“Our original skatepark equipment experienced multiple flooding events, which left it decaying. The original skatepark equipment had significantly deteriorated due to repeated flooding events. Relocating the skatepark has been a long-standing objective, and I am proud to say it is now a reality,” said Costello.
Another highlight of the new facility is that it was completely funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program. The skatepark was part of the original new athletic field plans but could not be completed due to lack of city funding.
The skatepark is another example where the City has created new recreational facilities that encourage healthy lifestyles for youth, families, and adults living in Wabasha. Among many other benefits, it provides a safe and fun environment for skateboarding, while encouraging lessons for youth like self-directed exercise, creative expression, and the value of persistence.
And persistence certainly paid off for the City of Wabasha, to be able to complete the goals for the new Athletic Complex.
Riley Costello Emergency Management Director
