Laut California Skateparks wird der Skatepark / Skateplaza in Des Moines, Iowa, der größte Skatepark von Amerika. Insgesamt wird der Park 6038.6976 Quadratmeter groß sein (65.000 Sq. ft.). Gigantische Ausmaße sind das.
Das Ganze soll so gebaut werden, dass Fußgänger durch den "passiven" Teil des Parks spazieren können. Der Skatepark wird in drei Teile aufgeteilt werden: Der Plaza/Fußgänger Weg, Haupt Skateplaza und den Snake Run/Bowl/Pool.
Klickt das Bild oben für die komplette Ansicht an.
Pressemitteilung:
The Des Moines Skatepark Committee and California Skateparks collaborated to create a World Class skatepark in Des Moines that is set to be one of the largest in the nation totaling more than 65,000 Sq. Ft. The City of Des Moines Iowa donated a beautiful parcel of land located along the Des Moines River adjacent to School St. and 2nd Ave. The park will be built over the existing West River Drive and incorporate an extension of river walk, giving pedestrians an option to travel through the passive part of the skatepark. The nearby pedestrian bridge spanning the river adds an additional element to the setting enhancing the interest of the skateparks location. The bridge will also serve as another route to the skatepark from down town. Centrally located to downtown and the freeway, The Des Moines Regional skatepark will be a welcome addition to the network of parks in the city.
Design inspiration was gathered from plazas and architecture found around the world to create the design for the skateplaza. Lance’s clover bowl and kidney pool are reminiscent of all the influence from backyard pools and 70’s style snake runs. At a base level, the skate plaza is intended to provide safe, fun and challenging opportunities for skateboarders and spectators alike. The plaza terrain maintains a focus on modern street/plaza and elements with an orientation towards beginner through advanced level users of all ages. Design considerations also address the opportunity for users to grow and progress in their skills. The park has ability to host a variety of events including demos, competitions and concerts. Attention has been given to incorporating a safe pedestrian walkway and inviting viewing/socializing areas.
At more than 65,000 square feet of skateable terrain, the design consists of 3 main areas. The lower plaza/pedestrian walk, the main plaza and the snake run, bowl and pool. The park includes decorative paving patterns and an earth tone color pallet consisting of tans, shades of grey, black and steel blue giving the design a unique style that integrates with its surroundings. Detailing for the hand rails, ledges, seating benches and shade structures were inspired by the arches and cables seen on the suspension bridges throughout Des Moines.
The entire skatepark was heavily influenced by the existing topography of the land and the water tables. The design also responds to the powerful currents of the river. The snake run lends itself to the flow of water at high speeds. The 2 tiered downhill snake run is over 300 feet long and includes a bit of everything.
