Ocean Pines Skatepark closed temporarily due to vandalism

OCEAN PINES, Md. – The Ocean Pines Skatepark is temporarily closed due to vandalism.

Ocean Pines officials say during the closure, they will remove the damaged property, clean the area, and replace the damaged security cameras.

Recreation and Parks Director Debbie Donahue says the plan is to reopen the park after the repairs have been completed. She says the skate park is monitored by the Ocean Pines Police Department and that if the vandalism continues, the Police Department will remove the involved parties and potentially ban them from the park permanently. Police will also monitor the park for trespassers during the posted hours when the park is closed.

General Manager John Viola says there is a cost involved in the continued upkeep of the skatepark and that must be passed on to all Association members.

“It’s unfortunate, and you never want to see something like this,” he said. “We also want to remind people that we have posted rules at the park, and those are for the safety of those using the park and the safety of those around them. We hope everyone will respect the rules of this facility, so we can continue to operate it for the benefit of our homeowners and residents,” Viola said.

Skaters must complete a signed waiver to enter and skate in the park. All skaters under the age of 18 must have the waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian in the presence of Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks staff or Ocean Pines Police staff. Helmets are mandatory, as are shirts and shoes. Elbow and knee pads are recommended.

The park is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.