Yuma’s Kennedy Skate Park reopens after renovations focused on community input

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The City of Yuma has officially reopened the Kennedy Skate Park following months of renovations aimed at improving the experience for skaters of all skill levels.

The project was first identified in the city's 2024 Parks and Recreation master plan as upgrades were needed to the aging facility. The City of Yuma Parks and Recreation Department say the goal was to take community feedback and turn it into a redesigned space that better serves local skaters.

“Citizens really came out and said that was something that they truly wanted. We had an old park here, but it was pretty old and had been here for a while," Eric Urfer, the City of Yuma Director of Parks and Recreation, said. "Specifically with the skaters. So everything that you see behind me here, that’s all their ideas that’s put into concrete.”

The Kennedy Skate Park was closed for about four months during construction while crews reworked the layout. According to the city, one of the main issues with the previous design was a disruption in flow, with newer skaters practicing skills in areas that limited more experienced riders.

The updated design now creates a more continuous flow for advanced skaters while also establishing a designated area in the back of the park where beginners can safely practice and develop their skills.

The City of Yuma say input also came directly from skaters during the demolition phase, as members of the local skating community stopped by the site to share feedback with construction crews.

The City of Yuma Parks and Recreation Department added that the goal of the project is to provide skaters with a dedicated area where they can safely enjoy the sport they love while continuing to build their skills in a more structured environment.