I am thrilled to be able to report to the residents of the Town of Hempstead that this week we opened our first skate park, which is located at Baldwin Park.

In the last few years it was expressed to me that there was a real need for a facility specifically geared toward skateboarders and in-line skaters. With that information in mind, the planning and construction of a "skate park," at 3232 South Grand Avenue in Baldwin Harbor, was commenced.

Baldwin Skate Park's equipment includes quarter pipes with a 12-foot wall, bank ramps with ledge, a launch land, street spine, partial pyramid with wall, half pipes and a grind rail. The park is divided into beginner and experienced areas. For novices, the skate park's features include a bank ramp that is three feet high and seven feet wide, a smaller version quarter pipe and a double bank. There will also be a bleacher section where people can watch the action.

The skate park will be open year round. From Memorial Day to Labor Day it will be open 8 a.m. to dusk, seven days a week, weather permitting. From Labor Day to Memorial Day the park will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends and holidays and weekdays on a schedule to be determined, weather permitting. Call 379-3779 to determine the hours of operation.

For the safety of the skaters the park requires that approved helmets, knee pads, elbow pads and wrist guards be worn. Town personnel, who will be supervising the park, will enforce regulations.

A photo ID, at a cost of $10, will be issued to each skater upon his or her first visit to the park. The ID must be presented for all subsequent visits. The daily admission rate is $3 for town residents and $9 for nonresidents. It is important that an adult accompany children under the age of 10 on all skate park visits. Youngsters under the age of 17 should be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian upon initial registration, and the accompanying adult will be expected to present picture identification and proof of residence. Skaters 18 years of age and older can sign their own registration application.

This park is a great achievement for the Town of Hempstead. It is truly a jewel in the crown of our fantastic Parks and Recreation Department.