When Littlefield Skate Park unveiled its new half pipe and bank last week, close to 50 kids showed up with their boards to test the new equipment. The Exeter Parks and Recreation Department is now looking for volunteers to help add some finishing touches to the newly renovated park on Saturday, May 17.

Located on Lower Court Street in Exeter, John C. Littlefield III Memorial Skate Park was originally installed 10 years ago. But, as the park’s concrete structures became outdated, activity at the site digressed from skateboarding to loitering, according to town officials.

“When we came onboard, the old concrete structures that were there were deteriorating and the park was really being trashed and not being used,” said assistant director of parks and recreation Greg Bisson. “We added approximately 10 new elements, including the two that just were installed.”  

In addition to the new half pipe and bank, the town has added rails, grind boxes, launch ramps, a quarter pipe and a grinding picnic table, all with up-to-date technology that’s safer and easier to maintain. The park has also been repaved. “It’s much improved from the previous skate park,” Bisson said.

The town received a $20,000 grant from the N.H. Department of Resources and Economic Development to install the new structures and beautify the property by planting trees and adding benches and picnic tables.
Much of the beautification work will take place on Saturday. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 9 a.m. and bring tools, such as rakes, shovels and screw guns. Workers will clean up garbage, plant trees, assemble benches and do other landscaping work, Bisson said. Those interested in helping should call 603-773-6151.