Terrapin Skate Park Officially Opens with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Kent Island
The Queen Anne’s County Commissioners and Department of Parks and Recreation celebrated the official opening of Terrapin Skate Park in Stevensville with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on October 18, 2024. This event marked the successful culmination of a community-driven project to create a dynamic, modern skatepark for skateboarders and thrill-seekers of all ages.
County Commissioners Chris Corchiarino, Phil Dumenil and Patrick McLaughlin, and Director of Parks and Recreation Steve Chandlee delivered remarks at the event, recognizing the skate park’s importance as both a recreational space and a testament to community initiative. In his speech, Chandlee applauded two local students who had initially petitioned for the skate park and played a significant role in its inception. Dylan Cannon initially wrote a letter to the Department of Parks and Recreation and County Commissioners and Violet Baudean initiated the petition. To honor their contributions, both students were presented with custom skate decks.
In addition, a memorial bench has been placed at the site to honor Christopher Jerpe, an avid skateboarder who tragically lost his life in a car accident in 1993. Family and friends of Jerpe thought having a bench overlooking the skate park would be a fitting way to remember him, providing a meaningful spot for reflection at this new facility.
The 10,000-square-foot Terrapin Skate Park, located on Cockey Lane, has been designed with elements to challenge and inspire skaters at all skill levels. Some key features include quarter pipes, hubba ledges, bank ramps, an A-frame bank, manual pads, and a skate bowl. With the American Ramp Company (ARC) as the designer and contractor, the skatepark reflects input gathered from the community, ensuring it meets the needs and preferences of its local skaters.
Future improvements include a shade structure and bathrooms to enhance visitors’ comfort, and it was announced at the ribbon cutting that PRS Guitars will be gifting the park a set of bleachers, creating a welcoming spot for spectators to sit and enjoy watching skateboarders in action.
This facility’s completion represents the Department of Parks and Recreation’s commitment to enhancing recreational amenities in Queen Anne’s County. Funded by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Local Parks and Playgrounds Infrastructure (LPPI) Fund, the skate park provides a safe, engaging space where creativity and athleticism can flourish.
“While skating is not a team sport, the skating community is very welcoming, and always encouraging each other.” remarked Director Chandlee. “It is a team of support for individuals.”
For more information about Terrapin Skate Park or future recreational projects in Queen Anne's County, please contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at 410-758-0835 or qacrecreation@qac.org.