New skate park to reclaim Venice Beach's heritage

 Aerial view of the construction site as of April/09 (Photo: Wormhoudt, Inc.)

It is unquestionable that Venice Beach has a fundamental place in the history of skateboarding.

Along side Santa Monica (literally), it was where “sidewalk surfing” was born and became trendy in the 60’s and 70’s; in the late 80’s and early 90’s, it was the stage for legendary sessions that kept the sport alive in its decline.

Now, the new Venice Beach Skate Park is poised to redeem the reputation the spot deserves.

According to the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, the price tag for the new 16,000-square-foot facility is $3.5 million.

Built nearby the area formerly known as “The Pit”, the design credits go to RRM Design Group (of San Luis Obispo, CA) in collaboration with Wormhoudt, Inc. (of Santa Cruz, CA); while California Skateparks, Inc. (of Upland, CA) is the building contractor.

Groundbreaking took place in January 2009, after pervasive efforts from the skateboarding community, with the decisive and continuous involvement of local Jesse Martinez and the Venice Surf & Skate Association (VSA). The latter is working towards naming the park after Dennis “Polar Bear” Agnew, renowned 70’s skater who passed away in 2005.

Construction is now underway, scheduled to be completed by next October.