LaVergne Skate Park May Close From Vandalism

Oct 23, 2006 03:26 PM PDT

A recreation hot spot for kids and teens in the City of LaVergne may close soon.

The skate park at Vietnam Veteran's Memorial Park just outside downtown LaVergne has been a victim of vandalism, since opening in March.

A city spokesperson said graffiti, kicked in side panels on the ramps and other serious damage leaves local leaders lamenting whether to keep the $40,000 skate park open.

Stepped up police patrols have not yet nabbed the vandals.

The bulk of damage has happened overnight.

City leaders are seriously considering fencing off the skate ramp temporarily until the vandals are caught.

The LaVergne Parks and Recreation Committee will ultimately decide the fate of the skate park when the panel meets next month.

A survey on the city's website asks residents how to solve the vandalism issue.

The city said it's already received some leads on the identities of the vandals.