(Sept. 11, 2004) -- NLB's Houghton Park (Atlantic/Harding Aves.) is now home to a new, state of the art Skate and BMX (bicycle) facility.

9th district Councilman Val Lerch donned arm and knee protection and a snazzy helmet and delivered remarks to the grand opening crowd...which included numerous young people carrying skateboards.

"This is a long-awaited event in the Top of the Town. We are delighted to be home to the City’s newest Skate and BMX Park, Councilman Lerch said in a release..

LB's Dept. of Parks, Recreation & Marine says the Skate and BMX facility is open, free of charge, Monday through Sunday, from dawn to dusk, with an unsupervised program that provides various skating and BMX elements, including six rails, nine ledges, four bowls and steps.

Councilman Lerch credited former 7th district Councilman Mike Donelon (pictured with 8th district Councilwoman Rae Gabelich) for working during his 1994-98 Council term, and after leaving office, to bring the project to fruition. Donelon said completing the project ultimately required a change in state law.

Phil Hester, Director of LB's Dept. of Parks, Recreation and Marine presented Councilman Lerch with major league skateboard fit for a LB lawmaker.

"It's just my size," Councilman Lerch quipped.