Dear editor:

I was born and raised in Niles, graduating in 1960. I left for the Navy and spent quite a bit of time away from here.

I moved back permanently three years ago and have enjoyed Riverfront Park. It is something that Niles needed years ago. It is really nice, the walking and bike path, the amphitheater, the concerts and all the activities, the children’s play area and skate park, but there is one thing missing.

I have noticed and talked to quite a few young people on bikes who are jumping on any hill they can find, flower beds, on the Main Street bridge by the beautiful memorial and using tables for ramps. I try to tell them not to destroy property; mostly they agree and stop, but also they say they have no place to do their thing, but the city spent a lot of money for the skateboarder park. The few young people I have talked to said all they need is a few piles of dirt and some wood and they could make their own jumps, etc.

I am sure the City of Niles can find some place for this. These kids don’t want anything fancy; in fact, they said they don’t go to the skatepark because when they fall there on the concrete, it hurts.

Such a thing doesn’t have to be at Riverfront Park. Look at all the places they could do it at – Westside School has a big field; Eastside, Southside and a few other places around.
I don’t know what it would take or who to talk to to get this going, but it sure could help keep some of our youth out of trouble and who knows? If anyone watches the sports networks, you would see some bikes jumping and other competition. Who knows what such a park or facility would do for our young people?

Just my opinion. I will help anyone interested.

Phil Mills
Niles