Wisconsin Skatepark Faces Shocking Shutdown or $1 Million Rebuild

Skateparks remain popular in cities across America. Drive by any local one in the summer, and you'll likely see kids and adults alike enjoying the fun they offer.

One Wisconsin city is now at a crossroads with its skatepark. The options: build a new park all at once, construct it in phases, or close the park indefinitely due to safety concerns.

READ MORE: Fans Devastated as Beloved Minnesota Brand Ends Sales

Superior Faces Big Decision About Local Skatepark

Last year, the city of Superior announced plans to spend $300,000 on a new skatepark using federal funds through the Local Fiscal Recovery Fund and the American Rescue Plan Act.

Get our free mobile app

The park design was approved by the Parks & Recreation Commission in 2024. It includes 25 obstacles and a bowl, which would be the only one of its kind in the Twin Ports region, and expected to draw skateboarders from across the area.

Superior Skatepark Costs Skyrocket

While the original budget was $300,000, the total cost has now surged to just over $1 million. With the increased price tag, city officials are now weighing their options, and Mayor Jim Paine recently shared his recommendation.

In a memo dated April 25, 2025, Mayor Paine wrote:

"I recommend the approval of full skatepark construction by Grindline Skateparks Inc., at a total cost not to exceed $1,012,000."

Phased Build vs. Full Rebuild vs. Indefinite Closure

The city could opt to break the project into two phases. The first phase would demolish the current park and build the new bowl, which is what the skating community overwhelmingly supports. The second phase would add the remaining obstacles and features.

The final option? Doing nothing.

"Choosing this path will result in the indefinite closure of the skatepark," said Mayor Paine.

The Superior Parks & Recreation Commission has recommended a full rebuild in one shot. Now, the Superior City Council will weigh in at its next meeting, scheduled for May 6. Stay tuned to see what happens next.