SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Lace up your skates, Huntsville! The city’s newest recreational destination is officially open. City leaders gathered to cut the ribbon on the highly anticipated Stoner Park Skating Rink, marking the debut of Huntsville’s premier covered outdoor roller skating venue.
The $2.3 million project, designed by Nola Van Peursem Architects and built by Butler Construction, broke ground in July 2024. The rink measures 85 by 185 feet and sits beneath a 19,000-square-foot open-air pavilion on the site of the park’s former tennis courts.
“Over the years we’ve worked to expand recreational activities across the city,” Mayor Tommy Battle said. “This new and exciting venue is a testament of our dedication to quality of life for Huntsville residents.”
The skate rink is the brainchild of a group of local residents who approached former District 1 City Council Member Devyn Keith with their idea.
“This is a unique moment for our residents,” Keith said. “Historically, marginalized communities have the impression that the ivory tower of City Hall doesn’t consider their needs and wishes. They made a compelling case, we listened, and their passion, knowledge and enthusiasm won us over.”
Keith and General Services Director Ricky Wilkinson hosted listening sessions with residents to plan the skate rink. They say the residents educated them about roller skating, how it differed from inline skating and skateboarding, and why roller skaters prefer asphalt over concrete.
“It’s been a tremendous experience,” Wilkinson said. “These residents researched facilities all over the nation and they steered the product you see today. It’s always great when we hire design firms with a lot of experience, but it is impressive when a community brings its passion and knowledge to the table.”
The skating rink will have new restrooms and picnic facilities. It is designed for patrons to easily connect to other amenities at the park, which include a playground, tennis courts, multi-purpose fields, football, baseball and softball fields.
“Huntsville Parks and Recreation is committed to enhancing new and existing facilities, amenities and parks,” Parks & Recreation Director James Gossett said. “We hope this encourages residents to get active, explore and maybe even try something new.”
District 1 City Council Member Michelle Watkins praised the project’s impact on the community. “We are happy to celebrate the opening of the City of Huntsville’s only outdoor roller skating rink, and it is right here in District 1. This marks the beginning of expanded recreation opportunities and future upgrades for our community. It is a step toward ensuring that our residents have safe and engaging spaces to enjoy, grow and thrive.”
Located on 68 acres south of Stringfield Road and west of Pulaski Pike, Stoner Park continues to grow as one of Huntsville’s most dynamic recreation hubs. The skating rink is located at 3715 Bragg Street NW, Huntsville, AL 35810. More details are available at the City of Huntsville’s official website: huntsvilleal.gov.
