Against the odds, GR818ERS have spent ten years turning an abandoned city site into a vibrant youth hub at Sheldon Skate Park in Sun Valley. What began as a disused space overgrown with debris is now a community landmark thanks to ongoing events and hands-on programs.
Shell City Skate Fest Shows Progress
Last month’s Shell City Skate Fest drew over 350 visitors for a day of competition, live music, art projects, dance battles, skill workshops, a resource fair and free food from local restaurants. The event gives skateboarders a chance to compete, showcase their tricks and connect with industry brands and talent scouts.
Pierre Arreola, co-founder of GR818ERS, said “It’s a big win that people see we can turn spots with a bad rap into places of creativity and cultural renaissance.”
Origins of Sheldon Skate Park
Sheldon Skate Park opened in 2014 on Sheldon Street when the city’s Department of Recreation & Parks teamed with California Skateparks to build a street-style course. Then-Councilmember Tony Cárdenas consulted skateboard star Rob Dyrdek to design a world-class facility.
Cárdenas was inspired after his son was arrested for skateboarding and many youths faced penalties for skating near a local shopping center, current Councilwoman Imelda Padilla noted. The park provided a safe place for young riders instead of criminalizing them.
Park Abandonment and Community Response
Without dedicated programming or maintenance, the park fell into disrepair. In 2016, city leaders shut it down and dumped sand over the ramps to deter skaters. Local youths cleared the debris themselves, using shovels and brooms to reclaim the concrete. A new fence kept law enforcement at bay while volunteer crews restored the space.
Youth Programming Promotes Safety
After a change in city leadership, GR818ERS won a contract in 2021 to run weekly skate classes and mentorship. They provide boards and gear so beginners can learn etiquette, safety and new tricks free of charge.
“Youth development is public safety,” said Arreola. Investing in the skate park helps create places that are safe and inspiring for young people.
Skate consultant Zane Valentino York adds, “I teach respect for your skateboard and the park ecosystem. If any student bonds with skateboarding the way I have, it’s worth it.” Eleven-year-old Diego Centeno agreed: “York’s helped me face my fear. One day I will drop into that ramp.”
Future Community Hub
Councilwoman Padilla plans to build a roller derby rink and recreation center next door, offering a permanent base for park programming and upkeep. With ongoing city support and grassroots engagement, Sheldon Skate Park is on track to become the Northeast Valley’s premier community space.
“It’s going to take a lot more work, but we’re on the right path,” said York.
Read the full article here: https://sanfernandosun.com/2025/06/04/how-the-gr818ers-invested-in-youth-programming-to-save-sheldon-skate-park