Ottumwa’s new All-Wheels Skate Park at Sycamore Park is nearing completion, marking a major milestone for the community. The state-of-the-art concrete skate park will officially open with a Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday, November 1st, at 10:30 a.m. at its new location in Sycamore Park next to the JBS Sports Center. 

Led by the Ottumwa Legacy Foundation, with support from the City of Ottumwa and community partners, the new park replaces the original metal structure built in the 1990s by local skateboarders, which was underutilized because of its age and condition. 

The celebration will begin with a ribbon-cutting, followed by demonstrations from skateboarders, BMX riders, and scooter enthusiasts showcasing the park’s versatile design. The event is free and open to the public. 

More than 290 local residents and students participated in surveys to help shape the park’s design, with an additional 383 people weighing in on design concepts shared by Spohn Ranch designer Vince Onel. The feedback revealed strong interest from a diverse group of wheeled users including skateboarders, BMX riders, in line skaters, scooter riders, and adaptive athletes, ensuring the final design truly serves all wheels. 

“I grew up at the old skatepark, and it had a major impact on who I became,” said Ron Thomas, All-Wheels Committee Member. “I made amazing friends, learned the importance of hard work, determination, and overcoming adversity outside of traditional team sports. The opportunity for a more modern, concrete facility to provide those same experiences for my kids and the community makes me super excited for the future in Ottumwa.” 

The Ottumwa Legacy Foundation extends special thanks to the members of the All-Wheels Committee for their dedication throughout the process and their assistance in planning the grand opening celebration. 

Join us on November 1st at 10:30 a.m. to celebrate this exciting new addition to Ottumwa’s recreation scene at Sycamore Park!  Users are asked to stay off the new park until opening day to complete all aspects of construction at the site.