Local advocates, City of Roanoke Rapids and Brightspeed celebrate new inclusive recreational space
ROANOKE RAPIDS, N.C. — March 11, 2026 — What began nearly two years ago as a grassroots idea from local advocates became a reality today as community members gathered to celebrate the grand opening of Roanoke Rapid’s Emry Park Skatepark.
“This project is a testament to what can happen when residents and community partners step forward with vision for their community,” said Mayor Emery G. Doughtie of Roanoke Rapids. “We’re proud to support initiatives like this that can create positive spaces for our youth and families.”
The Emry Park Skatepark project began as a resident-led effort by Justin Kerr and fellow skaters to repurpose underused tennis courts into a more inclusive recreational space. With support from the City of Roanoke Rapids, local businesses, like MJ Construction Company, and community donors, the vision gained momentum.
Brightspeed, the nation’s third-largest fiber broadband builder bringing high-speed internet access to more than 16,000 homes and businesses in Roanoke Rapids, joined the effort as a key partner, helping provide the final support needed to bring the project across the finish line.
“The excitement around this skatepark has been incredible,” said Ryan Newsome, assistant director at Roanoke Rapids Parks & Recreation. “It gives our community a dedicated space to gather, stay active and build connection.”
Just a few blocks from downtown, the newly constructed skatepark features a quarter pipe, rail, curbs, a manual pad and ramp. The park was designed with both beginner and experienced skaters and bikers in mind, providing a safe and accessible environment for them to express their passions and perfect their crafts.
Today’s celebration hosted by Brightspeed brought together city officials, community leaders, families and local skaters to officially cut the ribbon on the park’s opening. Attendees enjoyed a short program and a ceremonial first ride, alongside a live DJ and an ice cream truck.
“At Brightspeed, we believe connection goes beyond technology,” said Sabrina Anderson, local marketing manager at Brightspeed. “We’re honored to support a project that will bring families and neighbors together and create a lasting impact through community connection here in Roanoke Rapids.”
The project reflects a shared commitment to enhancing local recreation opportunities and creating spaces that bring neighbors together. By supporting the revitalization of this popular park, Brightspeed is investing in the long-term vibrancy of Roanoke Rapids and the people who call it home.
About Brightspeed
Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C. and with assets and associated operations in 20 states, Brightspeed provides broadband and telecommunications services through a network platform capable of serving more than 7.3 million homes and businesses. Our 4,000 employees are committed to building a future where more communities benefit from a more connected life, deploying a state-of-the-art fiber network and a customer experience that makes being connected as simple as it should be. For more information, please visit www.brightspeed.com.
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