ORANGE PARK – Skateboarders have been grinding, catching air and attempting other tricks like ollies and kickflips since the Orange Park Skateboard Park opened in 2001.

The park got a significant facelift in 2016, which transformed it from an old, outdated collection of wooden structures into a fully-functional, modern and contemporary fun zone complete with half-pipes, handrails, pools, bowls and other favorite obstacles constructed out of sturdy, clean, state-of-the-art concrete.

But the park at 1006 Fromhart St. still lacked a true soul for lovers of the sport.

That’s why Paul Reigel, a longtime town resident, took action shortly after Sammie Reigel, Paul’s son and avid skateboarder, pointed out the issue of the seemingly lifeless park to his father.

“Others have tried to operate this park from a retail standpoint. It’s not my park; it’s not your park; it’s the people’s park,” Reigel said.

It was soon later when Paul and his wife, Melody, formed OP Skatepark Inc, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, last December.

The nonprofit was created with one goal in mind: to operate the town-owned facility in collaboration with the town. By doing so, transform the state-of-the-art facility into a mecca for skateboarders in Orange Park and Clay County that they could enjoy for years to come, all which will be free of charge.

Finances generated through concessions and donations will go directly back to the park.

After getting the proper paperwork prepared to pursue the venture, it didn’t take long for the Riegels’ to make their dream a reality.

Paul and Melody met with the parks and recreation department and town council to discuss their proposal multiple times during November and December. Then, in January, they won approval for OP Skatepark Inc. to assume operational control.

Fast forward to February, and the park has now been open under their operation for three weeks. Plenty of work is still needed, but the nonprofit has big plans for the park moving forward.

A fully-operating concession stand and skateboard shop are two major upgrades the park will see.

The small shop will sell decks, wheels, bearings and other essentials, along with apparel like T-shirts and other items, which go on to support the park’s operations. OP Skatepark Inc. will also offer a repair service.

“If you snap a board, grind a bearing, or something else fails, we want to provide these kids with a way to fix or upgrade that,” he said.

Currently, the park’s shop is still in the move-in phase. Boards and other parts are making their way into the shop, but much of the soon-to-be inventory is scattered on the floor of the Reigel’s nearby home. But soon, it will soon be nice, neat, and organized for the community to enjoy.

The skate shop will open on March 6 at 5 p.m.

A new public address system is already installed, complete with JBL speakers. The big-energy speakers are ready for music, contest announcements and more.

All that is necessary to be completed in time for what will be a massive weekend for OP Skatepark, Inc. on March 10-11.

Then, Spring Break Shred, an all-ages skateboard contest, will commence on Saturday. The competition will include cash prizes for tricks, along with food, vendors, raffles and more.

During the Feb. 7 council meeting, Paul and Melody addressed the council and the community on their excitement for taking over operations for the park.

“We are happy to be here, and the progress is coming along wonderfully. We want (the town council) to be proud that they brought us in and partnered with us to make this better for their town. What we want to do is improve it, maintain it, and keep the energy positive, keep the vibes flowing in a good way,” Reigel said.

The venture is a collaboration between the town and the nonprofit.

“Our vision is just to make it better. The facility was here; we are just coming in to make it a more inviting place for families,” Reigel said.