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Chicago First Lady Amy Rule, Chicago Park District General Superintendent Michael Kelly, Alderman Will Burns and community members today broke ground today on the new wheel-friendly area in Grant Park.

“After several years of working with the community to develop a permanent wheel friendly area in Grant Park, we are extremely excited to make this vision a reality,” said Superintendent Kelly. “Skateboarding and other wheel sports have become increasingly popular and this new facility will provide great elements and other surrounding features to engage in or watch these activities.”

The new facility, located on Michigan Avenue between Roosevelt Road and the 11th Street Bridge, will replace the temporary skateboard park that was constructed in 2006 to address the overwhelming demand for a wheel-friendly area within the City’s front yard.

The new wheel friendly area designed for skateboarding, scooters, roller blades and BMX bikes is part of the Grant Park Expansion. Other features of the 1.86 acre parcel, located at the southwest corner of Grant Park, will include a multi-layered, patterned and colored concrete skate elements, granite benches, an observation deck, new storm water with natural detention areas, concrete walks, planters, extensive pedestrian lighting, drinking fountain, fencing and landscaping. Outdoor event and art exhibition space will also be included in the Grant Park Expansion. The project is expected to be completed in December.