Greece & Gates News

Greece celebrates grand opening of skatepark

On May 29, the Town of Greece hosted a grand opening celebration for its brand-new, 27,000-square-foot skatepark, a state-of-the-art recreational facility now open on the Greece Town Hall Campus.

Supervisor Bill Reilich welcomed community members, elected officials, and project partners to the ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the town’s ongoing commitment to inclusive, community-centered recreation.

“Back in 2021, we made the bold decision to remove an outdated skatepark at Basil Marella Park to build our town’s first inclusive playground,” said Reilich. “That moment sparked a vision – to build something new, something modern, and something that welcomes everyone from beginners to seasoned skaters. Today, that vision becomes reality.”

Among the honored guests were Monroe County Legislator and Greece Town Deputy Supervisor Kirk Morris, Greece Councilmembers Mike Bloomer, Bill Murphy, David DiPonzio, and Diana Christodaro, County Legislator Tom Sinclair, Director of Parks and Recreation Peter O’Brien, Deputy Director Lisa Letta, local skating advocate Cameron Yager, and nationally renowned skatepark designer Brad Siedlecki of Pillar Design Studios.

The skatepark was made possible through a grant awarded in 2022 by the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and The Skatepark Project. Following a national search for top-tier partners, the Town of Greece selected Pillar Design Studios and Artisan Skateparks to lead the design and construction of the new facility.

Key features of the skatepark include:
•A pump track, bowl, and custom ramps
•A full array of street elements
•Cast-in-place concrete construction for long-term durability
•Design considerations to support users of all ages and skill levels – including skateboarders, roller bladers, BMX riders, and young children on bikes

Incorporating local input was a central focus throughout the project. Community members and skaters worked closely with the design team to help shape a park that reflects the wants and needs of real users. Notably, Cameron Yager, a dedicated local skating advocate, was recognized for his hands-on role in the project’s development.

With environmental sustainability as a priority, the skatepark also earned additional grant support for exceeding green construction standards. The facility’s Mediterranean-inspired landscaping and stone column design elements honor the town’s historical roots and its namesake, Greece.

“This isn’t just a skatepark – it’s a symbol of what we can achieve when we listen to our community and invest in spaces that bring people together,” Reilich added. “It’s a place where creativity, movement, and friendship will thrive.”

The grand opening celebration featured a ceremonial ribbon cutting. Residents and visitors are encouraged to come explore and enjoy this dynamic new space, now officially open to the public. For more information, contact the Town of Greece Parks and Recreation Department at 585-723-2425 or visit www.greeceny.gov.

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