Suburban Skyview: Skateboarding in Batavia, as seen from the air

Now that spring is in the air, 13-year-old Josh Roberts of Batavia can get outdoors and catch some air on his skateboard at the Batavia Park District's Samuel E. Blackard Skate-n-Bike Park.

The park is part of Clark Island Recreational Area on the east side of the Fox River at 411 River St. It features multiple amenities, including a skate park with ramps and a bike park.

The Clark Island Recreation Area was named after Rev. Samuel E. Blackard who moved to Batavia in 1949 to lead the congregation at Calvary Episcopal Church. He served as chairman of Batavia's Recreation Committee that predated the park district, and was instrumental in passing a referendum in 1969 to establish Batavia Park District.

He died in 1970, and the skate park was dedicated in his name in 2002; the bike park was dedicated in 2007. A memorial stone with an inscription pays homage to Blackard's contributions.

In March, the Batavia Park District received a $600,000 Open Space Land Acquisition grant for future updates to Clark Island, including the skate and bike park.

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