Before designing the Milwaukee-area’s first modern skate plaza, our work for the City of West Allis involved a thorough site selection process where we analyzed locations throughout the community – examining accessibility, environmental impact and design canvas.
When Radtke Park was selected, we pursued a green approach by working around trees and contouring the skateable terrain to the site’s natural topography. When the City wanted to pay homage to their industrial heritage, we also paid close attention to the waste hierarchy by salvaging large metal gears and re-purposing them as skateable obstacles.
The park’s entrance is anchored by a large volcano planter. Flowing north from National Ave, the terrain then cascades downward through a series of banks, stairs and rails accented with colored concrete and an architectural aesthetic. A snaking transition wall hugs the east end of the park simulating the walls of an abandoned Southern California swimming pool.
Construction is underway and scheduled to wrap up this fall. Stay tuned for updates and grand opening information!
