Events coming up for skate park project

In April of 2024, the Rainier Oregon Skate Park (ROSP) Project initiative was launched to revitalize the skate park in Rainier, Ore., and strengthen community engagement through youth-driven sports programs. According to Project CEO Shane Bell, ROSP has made “significant progress” over the past year. “We have held productive discussions with city leadership, including the Rainier City Administrator and Mayor, and built strong local support,” said Bell. “In May 2025, ROSP partnered with the Fraternal Order of Eagles (F.O.E.)nonprofit organization, allowing us to focus on fundraising efforts. We have also contracted internationally recognized skate park design firm Grindline Skateparks, Inc. to handle the park’s professional design and potential build.”

According to Bell, the project has raised over $16,500 to date through city contributions, private donations, and community events. Among these was last August's Best Trick skateboarding contest during the Clatskanie Festival.

The ROSP Project is dedicated to revitalizing the city’s skate park while promoting social awareness, youth leadership, and positive recreation opportunities. It supports physical fitness and development of action sports skills and safety etiquette, positive peer engagement, confidence building and long-term decision making skills, and community unity through inclusive events.

Upcoming key dates and events for ROSP include an assembly at Clatskanie Middle High School on Friday, March 6. During the assembly, there will be a student presentation discussing the project, volunteer opportunities, and event participation. For more info, contact the school’s main office at 503-728-2146. On Saturday, March 21, there will be a community BBQ fundraiser hosted by the FOE aerie #4022 at 110 E 1st St. in Rainier from 1-3 p.m. For more info on this event, contact Russ Reigel at 503-313-5871. During the Clatskanie Festival Friday, Aug. 14, through Sunday, Aug. 16, we will have the second annual Best Trick Skateboarding and Scooter Contest. For more info on the event, contact Clatskanie Festival CEO Lori Sherman at 360-431-7910.

For any inquiries regarding ROSP, please email Shane Bell at 88sbell@gmail.com.