Help Shape the New Warhill Skatepark — Even If You’ve Never Landed a Kickflip

James City County Parks & Recreation, together with Spohn Ranch Skateparks — a national leader in building jaw-dropping skateparks — is inviting the community to help design the new Warhill Skatepark. Yes, it’s true — the current skatepark near the Rec Center is packing up and moving to the Warhill Sports Complex, and they want your input to make it bigger, badder, and better.

Now, I know skaters, skateboarders, and BMX riders are a pretty small percentage of the population. But speaking as someone whose kids were avid BMX riders — we practically lived at that skatepark near the Rec Center — this stuff matters. They’d sometimes ride eight hours a day. And yes, other parents would ask me: “How did you get them off video games?” Honestly? I have no clue. They just loved being outside, like I did growing up. I still think a lot of kids would fall in love with it too — if they were just given the chance.

These days, my kids are in their mid-20s and still hop on their BMX bikes now and then. And here’s the secret nobody tells you: it’s actually fantastic exercise. Way more fun than a treadmill.

Here’s how you can be part of the new skatepark’s future:

Take the quick online survey by Sept. 19: Click here to share your ideas — you’ll even be entered to win $100, courtesy of Triangle Skateboard Alliance. Attend one (or all) of the community design workshops: Thursday, Sept. 4, 6–8 p.m. – James City County Recreation Center, Rooms A, B & C (5301 Longhill Rd.) Thursday, Oct. 9, 6–8 p.m. – James City County Recreation Center, Rooms A, B & C (5301 Longhill Rd.) Thursday, Oct. 30, Time TBA – Virtual (follow JCC Parks & Recreation on Facebook and Instagram for details).

The workshops will give you the inside scoop on the design process, construction timeline, and yes — there will be light refreshments. Because nothing fuels good skatepark design like cookies.

For more info, call the JCC Park Planner at 757-259-5422.

Who knows — maybe in a few years we’ll have a skatepark so good it’ll get even the most dedicated gamers outside for a while.

Whether you’re a lifelong skater, a weekend BMX warrior, or just a parent who wants to see kids outside doing something other than leveling up on a screen, this is your chance to help shape a space that could inspire the next generation. The new Warhill Skatepark isn’t just ramps and rails — it’s a community hub in the making. Show up, share your ideas, and let’s build something so good it gets everyone, wheels or not, excited to drop in.

Meet Your Local Guide: Mr. Williamsburg

I’m John Womeldorf, a.k.a. Mr. Williamsburg — a local ambassador first and Realtor second. I help people fall in love not just with houses, but with the lifestyle of Greater Williamsburg, Richmond, and Hampton Roads.

If you’re thinking of buying or selling, I bring deep community insight, honest advice, and creative marketing to help you get where you want to go. Want to see what I mean? Check out my “Every Home Has a Story” series, explore neighborhoods, or contact me to get started.

Call/text me at 757-254-8136 or email John@MrWilliamsburg.com.