Click the play button on the video window to the right to see the storyLee Bender used to skateboard everyday. He knows every curve, ramp and rail at every park in the Valley.
He was upset when he found out he had to start paying to use the parks.
“There is a whole bunch of us in the skate community or the skate scene here in Arizona that won't come here to this park or any park that start charging.”
David Urbinato is with the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department. He told ABC15 this year’s budget cuts are twice as much as last year.
The cuts total about $28 Million which is about a quarter of their budget.
Urbinato said instead of closing down the community centers, they raised the cost of membership and include the skateboard park as part of the center.
“It’s one less cut we had to make in a really bad budget year,” said Urbinato
They have to raise $500,000 to keep the community centers open.
Annie and her sister, Ellen have been going to Encanto Sports Facility to play tennis for years.
“I'd rather pay $10 than close it down, said Annie, “I guess it's a pretty good deal to use all the facilities. I don't really mind.”
Urbinato said residents sounded off and said they would rather pay a little more than see the parks close down.
“It's worth it," said park visitor Jose, “Come on over, pay $10 so you can enjoy the facilities of the park.”
Starting July 1st, Phoenix residents will have to pay $5 for children and $10 for adults. It costs twice as much if you live outside the city.
“We want our facilities to still be available. We know the budget is bad and this is really a good compromise, a good middle ground," said Urbinato.
The compromise includes a raise in fees for swimming lessons, the Pueblo Grande museum and the sports facilities at Rose Mofford and Encanto.
The higher fees will also get you into Paradise Valley, Desert West and Pecos Community Centers.
All three will make skateboarders pay for access to the park.
You can apply for membership at any of the park community centers and sports facilities.
For more information, click on the
Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department’s website.
