Construction of a new skatepark at Emry Park in Roanoke Rapids is officially underway, thanks to efforts of local citizens and contributions from several major donors.  

Approximately two years ago, Justin Kerr approached the Roanoke Rapids Parks and Recreation Department requesting that the city convert the aging tennis courts into a new skatepark.  

When Kerr was told that there was currently no funding in the recreation budget for the project, he was not deterred and with the help of a few fellow skaters, they set out to raise the money needed to complete the project.

Fundraising events were held, sponsors were sought, and the group went door-to-door around town requesting donations.  

The group was able to raise over $30,000 towards the project. They also received an in-kind donation for demolition of the old tennis courts, valued at $20,000 from MJ Price Construction Company.  

In recognition of their efforts, the city of Roanoke Rapids approved a match of the $30,000 raised by the group. The match brought the group to within $15,000 of their goal. 

During that same timeframe, Brightspeed, an internet service provider, reached out to the department with a desire to support a local initiative that provides connection for residents and benefits the community.  

When Brightspeed learned of the community’s efforts to build a skatepark, they agreed to contribute the $15,000 needed to make the vision a reality.  

“We are very grateful for Brightspeed to have come forward at just the right time to make this project possible,” said Ryan Newsome, assistant parks and recreation director.  “The effort put into this project by our local community has been unbelievable. I am so thankful Brightspeed and MJ Price Construction were willing to make such generous contributions to assist us in improving our parks.”

Newsome said the tennis courts had gotten to the point where maintenance costs were far exceeding the benefits. “But there was not enough room in our budget for demolition, much less repurposing the space. This project is happening thanks to the generosity of Brightspeed, MJ Price Construction, and the citizens of Roanoke Rapids.”

Parks and recreation Director Kelly Daughtry said, “We have spent years searching for a solution to the aging tennis courts in Emry Park.” 

She added, “We are excited to finally see the space transforming into something useful for our citizens. The amount of work Justin and his group have put into this project is amazing.  We really appreciate companies like Brightspeed and MJ Price Construction stepping up and giving so generously. We couldn’t do it without them.”

Daughtry said this morning the department has the lowest construction quote on the project and the city is currently working on a purchase order.

“At Brightspeed, we believe connection goes beyond the internet; it’s about bringing people together to build something lasting”, said Sabrina Anderson, local marketing manager for the company. “We’re honored to help the people of Roanoke Rapids transform an underused space into a place that promotes connection, movement and community pride where kids and families can stay active and have fun.”

This new skatepark will be different from the one located just outside TJ Davis Recreation Center, which has a lot of large ramps with short transitions, making it more suitable for advanced riders.  

Kerr’s vision was to create a space with many open areas to skate freely, and a few elements widely spaced for those who were looking to practice more advanced tricks. 

“I want to see a space where I can bring my daughter out and teach her how to skate,” said Kerr. “The skatepark at TJ Davis is great for advanced skaters, but there isn’t much space to just skate around and learn the basics.  I’m hoping we can create a space that has something for skaters of all ability levels.”  

In addition to Brightspeed and MJ Price Construction, Kerr was appreciative of ServPro of Roanoke Rapids for its donations and assistance with the logistics of the skatepark design and community fundraising efforts.

Construction of the new skatepark should be completed by the spring of 2026.