The Taku Skatepark reopens after massive upgrades, making it the largest and most expansive skatepark in Anchorage. The in-ground concrete skatepark includes flow and plaza-style features with uniquely Alaskan elements like a whale’s tail-shaped bowl and inlaid Big Dipper. The new skatepark is a dynamic recreational environment made for learning new maneuvers and practicing tricks on a skateboard, scooter, BMX bike, or rollerblades. It has something for all ages and abilities in the Taku/Campbell neighborhood of Anchorage.
The park was designed by Grindline Skateparks, Seattle-based specialists in the planning, design, and construction of cast-in-place concrete skateparks. The custom skatepark design incorporates recommendations from the Anchorage skating community and offers lots of opportunities to transfer between a variety of elements. “The skatepark has been a true community effort,” said Mike Braniff, Director of Anchorage Parks & Recreation. “We know the community is very eager to skate this new facility and we couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate with you.”
The skatepark, which broke ground in 2023, has been long awaited by Anchorage’s skaters, who worked hard to get skating included in the 2018 Taku Lake Park Master Plan and fundraise for the construction. The park is funded through many individual donations from the community, two voter-approved park bonds, a grant from Rasmuson Foundation, support from the Blue & Gold Boardshop and local artists, and a Skatepark Project grant (formerly the Tony Hawk Foundation).
Celebrate the reopening with a ribbon-cutting, music by DJ Spencer Lee, demo by pro skaters Gus Bus and Tony Latham, and product giveaways from Blue & Gold Boardshop, The Skatepark Project, and Anchorage Park Foundation.
Taku Skatepark Reopening:
• When: September 29, 2024 from 2pm – 3pm
• Where: Taku Lake Park (8200 Stormy Place)
• Hosted by: Anchorage Park Foundation, Anchorage Parks & Recreation, & the Blue & Gold Boardshop
