The San Juan Capistrano Skatepark officially opened its ramps and bowls to the public on June 30, following a ribbon-cutting ceremony that concluded years of planning and construction. Located at 32681 Alpaz Street, on the southwest corner of the former Kinoshita Farm property, the new facility represents a significant investment and a regional partnership with the City of Dana Point to provide a dedicated space for skaters.
San Juan Capistrano Mayor Troy Bourne led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, joined by fellow councilmembers, a few Dana Point Councilmembers, and OC Supervisor Katrina Foley. A large crowd of skaters of all ages gathered to celebrate the park's opening. Mayor Bourne, acknowledging the long road to completion, told the attendees that such projects "take a little bit of time," and highlighted that efforts began as far back as 18 years prior, involving previous city councils and residents who are now adults with their own children.
The project, which cost San Juan Capistrano approximately $6.8 million, addresses a need identified by residents in a citywide recreation-needs assessment in 2007. The City Council approved the project at a January 2024 meeting, where discussions included the community's positive response and the park's design. As part of the agreement, the City of Dana Point will contribute $25,000 annually toward maintenance costs, based on expected use by its residents. Mayor Bourne emphasized this regional collaboration, stating the park is a partnership between the two cities and expressing gratitude for Dana Point's full involvement.
Measuring roughly 42,575 square feet, the Skatepark and Trail Project includes a 20,000-square-foot, all-wheel skatepark. Grindline Skateparks designed the facility to accommodate scooters and BMX riders, featuring a flow bowl area, a pool bowl area, and a street skating area with rails, stairs, and banks. Mayor Bourne noted that these features are suitable for all skill levels.
In addition to the skatepark, the development plans included a playground structure, a restroom building, shaded seating areas, landscaping, and a new multi-use public trail. While the park is open, a sunshade and the full completion of the multi-use trail are still scheduled to be finished within the coming months. The city acquired the 28-acre Kinoshita Farm property in 1991, with the specific plan for the park and rezoning approved in January 2024.
The ceremonial groundbreaking for the project site occurred in September 2024, when San Juan Capistrano councilmembers, joined by then-Dana Point Mayor Jamey Federico, used skateboards to dig the first pile of dirt. At the June 30 ribbon-cutting event, various local businesses and foundations, including Capo Rehab Physical Therapy, REMAX Realty-Michael Ahumada, Hidden Gem Skate Shop, Kris Bareng-Supreme Pro, The Sheckler Foundation, Andrew Ramos, and Weirdo 4 Life, were present to support the opening and distribute skate-related items. As the ribbon was cut, Mayor Bourne encouraged the eager crowd, saying, "As soon as the ribbon drops, you drop in," adding, "Try not to hit each other." This skatepark follows the recent completion of the San Juan Capistrano Sports Park in August 2024, located nearby on Camino Del Avion, bringing further recreational opportunities to the area.
