The Klamath Falls Skate Park was in critical need of ownership and structured operations. As a repercussion of the need of ownership and structured operations, the park has been experiencing a downward spiral with regards to community perception and public image. This resulted in an increase in crime and presence of drugs and alcohol. This illicit and illegal behavior began affecting the neighboring Steen Sports Park and after threats to physical health and increased levels of violence and delinquent behavior, an effort to clean up the skate park was necessary. Initially, public officials and law enforcement were met with to discuss possible remedies and a plan to create a new Non-governmental Organization (NGO) to oversee the park was developed. Future work of the NGO would include skate park concrete and grounds maintenance as well as a sports tourism initiative that would serve as entertainment and recreational opportunities for Klamath Falls, as well as offer economic benefits to the community. This NGO would also focus on community youth involvement and local volunteer groups in maintenance efforts and to promote alternative healthy outdoors activities for all ages.
