light up the Port Townsend Skatepark with solar

Hi, my name is Samantha. I’ve grown up in Port Townsend and like many others, the skatepark was a huge part of my childhood. I’ve seen our skatepark help out so many people of all ages. Since the beginning of COVID I’ve witnessed a huge boom in younger kids starting a love for skateboarding, BMX bike ridding etc, and what a perfect spot for youth to learn these skills! The community at the skatepark is caring, full of people wanting to teach and mentor each other. It’s a place to find yourself and make friends. A total gem in the city of Port Townsend.

As many of us that have lived in town know, the fall and winter months can get quite dreary and dark. It becomes a challenge to use the skatepark especially for those in school or with 9-5 jobs. Unlike in the summer where you can skate till 8-9pm it’s dark as early as 4. Speaking from personal experience it’s very frustrating and can take a mental toll not being able to practice the sport you love for half of the year. The solution I thought of was seeking lighting for the skatepark.

I initially proposed my idea to the city council which then turned into my senior project. We’ve teamed with SOL a solar powered lighting company which fits the needs of preserving our victorian town by making sure the look of the polls will match existing light polls around town. The lights will be on a timer so for those worried about excess lighting and maintaining a dark skies city this should help. And not to mention it’s solar so an environmentally friendly option.

It’s been a lengthy process but it’s time for the last steps! The ball is rolling and all that’s left is some extra costs and need to be covered. Currently the goal is $7-10,000 and I know with the help of the community we can reach this goal!:)

Thanks for everyone that’s helps, and please spread the word!

-Sam