A Skate Park is Needed in Gloucester City, Says Resident I cnbnews.net
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
By Albert Countryman Jr.
Gloucester City News
Harry Laute, who lives with his wife and children at Third and Orange streets on the westside of Gloucester City, said “there is nothing for these kids in the neighborhood to do.”
Born and raised in Gloucester, Laute, his wife, Denise, her daughter, Kristin, and their son, Harry, 14, moved back about five years ago.
Young Harry “likes biking,” but he and his friends have nowhere to go, Mr. Laute said.
When Laute was young, he said he could go to the King Street Movie, the Gloucester Pool at Proprietor’s Park, and he joined the Little League.
It is different for his son, though.
“They all come over here, standing on the corner,” said Laute, adding that this can only lead to trouble.
There is a small lot at Third and Orange, and the owner – Heims Food – allows the youngsters to play wiffleball.
“We need a skate park, a bike park, or even basketball courts in this end of town,” Laute said.
Parents John and Leslie Schultz agreed, saying, “There is nothing for the children to do.”
Laute was also concerned about the safety of the youngsters.
“One of the kids got hit by a car recently. We need a speed bump at the corner,” Laute said, explaining that the traffic coming down Burlington Street (which turns into Third Street), speeds up after crossing Market Street.
The families hope more recreational activities are provided. In the meantime, the young people will hang on the corners and play in puddles with hockey sticks.