When famous sculptor Nancy Schon discovered her iconic turtle and hare sculptures at Copley were being damaged by local skateboarders desperate for a place to practice their sport, she had an idea. She wanted to build a skatepark for these skaters to build their community & hone their skills.
In 2000, Schon reached out to the Charles River Conservancy to discuss the possibility of building a skatepark that would provide a place in the city for local skaters. Director, Renata von Tscharner, was the mother of a skateboarder and immediately excited about the opportunity. Both Nancy and Renata committed over 10 years to the project, working tirelessly in a volunteer capacity to ensure the success of the largest skatepark on the East Coast. Throughout the project, the pair worked with Mayors in several cities and more than half a dozen Commissioners of the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Partnering with The Lynch Foundation
Having worked with the Lynch Family before on her public, playful creations including the world-famous Ducklings in the Boston Public Gardens and the Dragon of Dorchester sculpture on Nonquit Street, Nancy thought Carolyn and Peter may be interested in this new concept.
She was right! The Lynches were immediately drawn to the project thanks to the impact it would have on the local community and the idea of creating a space for teenagers to build their skills and self-confidence.
Thus, in 2004, The Lynch Foundation offered a public matching challenge grant. This helped raise funds & build awareness and excitement for the project.
Over the next decade, they hosted events, made phone calls, wrote letters, and personally contacted local philanthropists, legislators, and federal, state and local government agencies to garner support for the skatepark.
All of this support and dedication paid off. In November 2015, The Lynch Family Skatepark officially opened. The Lynch Family Skatepark, located under the Zakim Bridge in Cambridge, is the largest skatepark on the East Coast.
This park provides a haven for thousands of skateboarders, in-line skaters, and BMX riders giving them a place to build their community. There is a place for beginners and experts, and all are welcome.