DUNKIRK, Md. — Local skateboarders and advocates are urging Calvert County officials to accelerate plans for the renovation of Dunkirk Skatepark, citing safety concerns and overwhelming community support.
James “Freddie” Riner, a representative of the Southern Maryland Skateboard Association, has been leading the charge, advocating for renovations since 2021.
“The aging asphalt surface at Dunkirk Skatepark makes skateboarding hazardous and limits the user experience,” Riner stated in a letter sent to Calvert County Parks & Recreation Director Robert Branham and the Calvert County Commissioners. “Even after a reseal in 2022, the porous and severely worn asphalt remains a safety hazard in heavily trafficked areas.”
The recently released fiscal year 2026–2031 Capital Improvement Program includes a line item for Recreation-Resources-Dunkirk Park – Skate Park TBD Planning at $1.45 million, but skateboarders argue that immediate action is needed to improve the facility’s deteriorating conditions.
Dunkirk Skatepark Overview
Location: 10750 Southern Maryland Blvd., Dunkirk, MD 20754
Dunkirk Skatepark features a mix of asphalt and concrete ground with prefabricated metal ramps. It includes a mixture of street and transition obstacles suitable for all skill levels, including:
- A multi-level funbox
- Multiple flat bars, benches, and a seven-stair
- Two quarter pipes
- A popular mini ramp featuring a spine, rollover, and multiple heights
Advocacy and Community Support
The Southern Maryland Skateboard Association has amassed more than 1,200 verified signatures through an online petition, demonstrating strong community interest in the project.
A Cost-Effective Solution
To address the deteriorating conditions, the association has proposed resurfacing the park using SportsMaster’s SkateMaster acrylic surfacing, a durable coating designed for skateboarding, inline skating, and roller hockey. The group suggests this cost-effective solution could be applied over the existing asphalt after minor repairs to cracks and uneven surfaces, similar to tennis court resurfacing techniques.
“We understand that the CIP allocates funding for renovations, but the urgency of need does not match this timeline,” Riner emphasized. “We’ve seen other sports and courts receive priority funding, while the most basic needs of our skateboarding community continue to be overlooked.”
The association has recommended SealMaster of Upper Marlboro as a potential provider for the resurfacing, noting its proximity and expertise in similar projects.
Success in Neighboring Counties
The skateboard community in Southern Maryland has seen recent success in securing funding for skatepark improvements. In fiscal year 2024–25, St. Mary’s County, in collaboration with local advocates, secured funding for both the renovation of Nicolet Skatepark and the construction of a brand-new facility in Chaptico. The Nicolet renovation is currently underway, led by Artisan Skateparks.
Community Engagement and Future Goals
The Southern Maryland Skateboard Association’s work in Calvert County is focused on short-term repairs for Dunkirk Skatepark, with the long-term goal of a full concrete skatepark renovation. Additionally, the group is advocating for a new skatepark at the recently acquired Dominion Energy Regional Park.
Dunkirk Skatepark remains the only skatepark in Calvert County, making its preservation and improvement critical for local skateboarders.
Riner and fellow advocates have sought engagement with Calvert County officials through meetings and volunteer initiatives. Safety concerns regarding the rough asphalt surface were previously discussed with Calvert County Safety Officer Dan Baker in November 2024. However, Riner said there has been no follow-up from county officials regarding possible solutions.
On Feb. 14, 2025, Riner received a response from Parks & Recreation Director Robert Branham addressing the concerns.
“Your proposal for using SportsMaster’s SkateMaster acrylic surfacing is appreciated and will be shared with our maintenance teams for consideration in upcoming planning discussions,” Branham wrote.
“Additionally, I want to note that the Calvert County safety officer conducted a thorough inspection of the skatepark. Although the surface may not meet the preferences of all skateboard enthusiasts, the park has been deemed safe for use. I also acknowledge your meeting with Safety Officer Dan Baker in November 2024 and regret that you did not receive follow-up correspondence.”
Riner expressed frustration with the county’s response.
“The LPPRP survey results were posted on Feb. 16, 2022, three years ago, on Calvert County’s YouTube channel, outlining what the county identified as underserved areas,” Riner told The BayNet. “As you can see, BMX street courses and skateparks—essentially the same thing—were listed at the same level of underserved areas as others that have since received more favorable accommodations and renovations, like pickleball.
“Not to mention, high on the list were teens and young adults, who make up the primary demographic for these underserved activities.
“We just feel like we are being underserved and, at times, dismissed,” Riner said.
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This is a very low priority expensive want, not a ‘need’ for the County such as desperately needed County road repairs and resurfacing. They can wait or go someplace else to skateboard.