Renton skatepark built on WSDOT property could be bulldozed

RENTON, Wash. — Skaters in Renton say a skatepark they built could be bulldozed.

The skatepark sits under an I-405 overpass, which makes the land the property of the Washington State Department of Transportation.  Officials say they need the land for maintenance and upkeep.

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Skaters who contacted KIRO 7 say they've poured their heart and soul into creating the skateboarding haven known as Longacres Skatepark.

Skaters say people from all over the area came to Renton to enjoy it until they recently received notice their park is illegally located.

WSDOT says the City of Renton informed them about the park’s location.

The creators say they've been told it's a liability issue.

Skaters say they have made multiple attempts at reaching out to the city, including approaching the Renton City Council.

WSDOT spokesperson Marquise Allen told KIRO 7 the city is currently shepherding the skaters through the permitting process so they could possibly keep the park.

That would entail getting insurance in case someone is hurt, leasing the land, which would have to be independently appraised for fair market value, and maintaining the park.

If the skaters cannot come up with the money the permitting would cost, the park will at some point be bulldozed.

Cox Media Group