“This is a unique day,” said Mayor Emery Doughtie.

(Please see our photo gallery on the event by following this link)

The mayor said the project began with suggestions such a facility was needed. “We started looking at what we could do. Today we have a real project, something that will last a long time, something we can be proud of for a long time.”

Jehan Benton-Clark of Kate B. Reynolds said, “We're happy we could participate. We're really excited about everything happening here to improve health.”

Lori Medlin, of the Halifax County Convention and Visitors Bureau, said her agency was happy to partner on projects like this one. “Kate B. Reynolds leaves no stone unturned to get our community moving and making our children safer. They've been so good to our community. It's wonderful for the kids to see you can make a difference.”

Ed Liverman, chair of the city's recreation advisory committee, said, “Today is a wonderful thing to see. It gives the parks and recreation department another arrow in their quiver.”

Roanoke Rapids Police Department Deputy Chief Andy Jackson drove Medlin and Benton-Clark around, showing them where youth skated in the city. “I'd like to give a big shout out to K.B. Reynolds and Lori,” he said.

They found places where skaters used concrete slabs and places like the so-called trash park behind Big Lots. “It's like a dream come true,” Jackson said. “I'm glad to finally see it become a reality.”

Parks and Recreation Director John Simeon credited the work of many people both outside and inside the city, including public works and his own department. “Working as a team we can make a difference.”