Photo caption: 1st Source Regional President Matt Vessely presents Valpo Parks Board President Christa Emerson and staff with $50,000 Skatepark Donation. Pictured L to R – John Seibert, Lisa Kusbel, Christa Emerson, Matt Vessely, Kevin Nuppnau.
The city of Valparaiso and Valpo Parks have a new partner in the “Get On Board” fundraising phase of a new skatepark. The 1st Source Foundation will contribute $50,000 to the project, which will be built at Fairgrounds Park.
“We are honored to be a part of this project that means so much to this community,” said 1st Source Regional President Matt Vessely. “It’s going to be a fantastic place for everyone to enjoy.”
Park Board President Christa Emerson was excited about the donation from 1st Source Bank.
“We are extremely grateful for the support of 1st Source towards the skatepark project and so many other park and community missions for good,” said Emerson. “It’s because of public-private partnerships such as this that allows Valpo Parks to create extraordinary facility and programs for our residents and guests.”
Phase 1 of the project was completed in April and consisted of virtual public engagement sessions, site selection, conceptual skatepark design plans and overall site layout. It resulted in a 35,000 square foot skateable footprint and viewing areas for spectators. Skateboards, scooters, in-line skates and bikes will be able to use the park free of charge once it opens.
“The public’s input was critical as the Skatepark Task Force worked alongside Valparaiso High School graduate and world class skatepark designer Dug Ketterman from Dugout Design Studios on the layout and park design,” said Valpo Parks Assistant Director Kevin Nuppnau. “Areas such as an adaptive lane, beginner’s area, local art inclusion and others quickly became important to everyone involved. We’re extremely excited with the outcome of Phase 1 and look forward to speaking with potential sponsors and donors to share ways they can get on board.”
The GET ON BOARD fundraising stage of the project offers a variety of opportunities for private organizations and individual donors.
For more information and to learn about ways in which you can GET ON BOARD, please visit Valpo Parks website at www.ValpoParks.Org.