By Myrna Trauntvein
Times-News Correspondent
Once again, Nephi's proposed skate park was rejected as a
candidate for receiving funding.
Last year, the Nephi Skate Park project was runner-up for
a Utah State Urban Parks/Recreation Grant and this year, in
spite of changes made to the application, the matching funds
were still not awarded to Nephi City.
Chad Brough, mayor, said the project was one he continued
to support and said the city would not give up on seeking
funding for the park.
"We have learned some other ways to tweak our
application," said Brough.
"The skateboarding sport needs a facility," said
Brough.
He said wherever those who used skateboards wanted to
skate in the city, they were forbidden. Business owners,
churches and schools did not like the youth skateboarding on
concrete surfaces and edges of walkways and curbs because
the edges of concrete were chipped which caused the concrete
to crack.
"In my opinion, something needs to happen," said
Brough.
Phil Baker, city parks and recreation director, earlier
said the grant was site-specific and for that reason it was
decided to use the old high school tennis courts located on
property the city now owns.
Nephi City, with cash and land, agreed to donate $92,750
for 46.38 percent of the proposed project. Local businesses
and citizens have also agreed to donate $10,000 in materials
or 5 percent of the project.
Although Carter said that amount has now increased as he
has been to various businesses to request support.
Skate parks were being built in many communities, said
Baker. There are facilities in Provo, Payson, Gunnison and
Delta. Those facilities give a good idea of what it takes to
make a successful park.
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