1555 W FRONT ST
Interested in learning more about Boise Skateboard
Association? Visit their website to see drawings of the proposed
new design or make a donation.
Rhodes Skate Park is a 1.28-acre special use park located in
west downtown near the Linen District. Local youth helped design
the park, which features inline skating and skateboarding. The
covered and lighted area features a vert, rails and ramps plus a
full-length basketball court, restrooms and picnic
tables.
History
Glenn Rhodes came up with the idea for a multiple-use skate park
after hearing about business owners running off skateboarders from
downtown areas. He talked to his neighbor, 16-year-old Tim Shandro,
who took him to skate spots and showed him what skateboarders like.
And he talked to other kids, who told him "there was no place to
skate."
In 1992, Rhodes, a former Ada County Highway commissioner,
persuaded the county and the city to designate a site for kids to
recreate. The 1.28 park site is located between 15th and 16th
streets under the I-184 connector.
Rhodes donated his time to frame the site, pour concrete,
install fencing and coordinate all other construction five days a
week over a two-year period.
He persuaded over 130 contractors, individuals, civic groups and
businesses to help him build a park for Boise's youth. Rhodes also
raised $35,000 in cash contributions and built the rest of the park
with donations of labor and materials. The City of Boise provided
staff, inspection services and an additional $50,000.
Named for Glenn Rhodes, Rhodes Park was dedicated in December
1995. Valued at $465,000, the park is a tribute to a man who prizes
both youth and recreational opportunities.
Despite the many challenges of raising funds and finding
volunteers, Rhodes remained focused on the park. When asked how he
kept the project alive, he said. "Sometimes you get involved and
there's no stopping until you're done."
"Glenn's enthusiasm for giving kids a place of their own has
made a difference," says Charlie Ware of the Associated General
Contractors. "It was his vision, his perseverance and hard work
that made this park a reality."
Basketball
Number of Basketball courts: 1
Public Art
Wheels, 2003 By Ward Hooper & Boise Youth
Wheels and superheroes brighten up the freeway underpass near
the concrete park designated for skateboarders.
Restrooms
Park restrooms are available at this park. Restrooms are
now open. Park drinking fountains are now operational.
For a list of restrooms and portable restrooms that are
available year around in parks and the reserves, click here.
Skateboard
The covered and lighted area features a vert, rails and
ramps.
A Master Plan is a
concept drawing illustrating recreation facilities and landscape
features planned for a park site. It does not necessarily
represent what amenities are currently in a park.