Since the finalization and rebuilding of the Derry Township Community Center, one feature of the original building has seemingly gone missing. There is now no longer a skatepark at the Rec Center or elsewhere in the Hershey area, for that matter.
Derry Township should rebuild the skatepark.
Its presence would minimize crime, encourage more kids to get outside and keep Hershey’s youth from traveling long distances to enjoy their hobby.
Many in opposition to skatepark construction have a false idea that skateparks increase crime. This is a myth, however. In fact, skateparks have been known to deter crime in the communities they occupy.
A survey conducted by the Tony Hawk Foundation found that 47% of officers noticed a decrease in overall youth crime since their city or township opened a skatepark. Furthermore, the same survey found that 91% of officers reported no significant issues with bad behavior or crime at the skatepark, disproving the belief that many skateparks are hotbeds for criminal activity. Skateparks are an excellent deterrent to youth crime. They keep young people occupied by giving them an outdoor hobby and giving kids something challenging yet rewarding to dedicate their time to.
According to the National Health Service, excessive screen time negatively affects young people’s health. Constructing a skatepark would mitigate this by getting more kids and teenagers outdoors and staying healthy. According to the nonprofit Beyond the Board, skateboarding reduces the risk of heart disease, improves coordination, and builds muscular strength. There are also many mental health benefits as well. Skateboarding builds patience, while skateparks give skateboarders a “third space” to socialize without needing to spend any money, a concept that goes away as people spend more time indoors.
There are still skateboarders in Hershey despite the lack of a skatepark. There are two options for them: Annoy local residents by skating in public spots like rails and stairs or drive to the Steelton Skate Park, a 25-minute drive from Hershey. This means that for skateboarders without their driver’s license, parents would need to drive almost an hour round trip.
Skateboarding reduces crime and benefits young people’s health and the town as a whole. Building a skatepark would facilitate the sport’s growth. If you want the Community Center to rebuild the skatepark, fill out their citizen request form with your opinion.
