In the heart of Port Hardy, the Kyle Scow Memorial (KSM) Skatepark has been a dynamic hub for skateboarders, bikers, scooter riders, and bladers for over two decades. Nestled beside the community’s civic centre, pool, arena, tennis courts, schools, and trail networks, the park’s location is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
Today, the KSM enters a new era, thanks to an ambitious revitalization project that blends modern design with the charm of its serene, forested backdrop.
A Journey of Community Investment
The journey to renewal began years ago, when the Port Hardy District Council prioritized the need for a safer, more inclusive, permanent facility. After overcoming various funding hurdles, Council was able to harness the Growing Communities Fund in 2023—a grant with no strings attached—to make the skatepark project a reality, along with other transformative community initiatives.
Artistic Design Meets Functionality
Radius Skateparks executed the upgrades, delivering not just functionality but also artistry. Certain finishing touches will be added in spring, including cultural elements inspired by Master Carver Chief Calvin Hunt’s Kwakiutl Moon. Plans are also underway to honour the park’s namesake with new signage.
Mayor Pat Corbett-Labatt emphasizes the project’s importance: “Revitalizing this well-loved community asset ensures it will remain a vibrant space for fun, growth, and connection for years to come.”
The Kyle Scow Memorial Skatepark Experience
The revitalized KSM Skatepark is already receiving rave reviews from the community. Youth and adults alike are thrilled by the new concrete features, such as half-pipes, funboxes, a pump track, and spine transfers, which offer something for every skill level. Riders have called the park a perfect mix of challenge and fun, praising its smooth design and spacious layout. Families are enjoying the upgraded space, which has become a gathering point for the community by offering a safe and inclusive environment for recreation.
The community’s collective effort and vision have created a space where memories will be made for future generations. Whether you’re a rider, a spectator, or someone looking for natural inspiration, the KSM Skatepark is ready to welcome you.