By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Long after his last trick set, Blake Levenick’s passion for skateboarding continues to inspire and uplift the Belle River community. Last month, the late skater’s memory took center stage as Council, Lakeshore staff, and community members gathered to celebrate the grand re-opening of the Optimist Park Skate Park—now in a vibrant new location and carrying Blake’s spirit forward for new generations.
The redesigned park, crafted by Canada Ramp Company, marks more than just a new chapter for local skaters—it’s a testament to community, vision, and the lasting influence of a young man whose love for skateboarding helped shape a town. After Blake’s passing in 2004, his family and friends rallied to raise funds for the original skate park, ensuring his legacy would live on in every flip, grind, and smile.
“I’m just very happy that it will continue as a skateboard park for all the kids because skating was one of Blake’s passions,” said his mother, Eileen Levenick. Mike Levenick, Blake’s father, added, “He would’ve been really proud of this. He’d probably still be out here skating.”
The new park’s location within Optimist Park was carefully chosen to enhance safety and accessibility, while making room for future expansion of County Road 22. More than 200 people shared their ideas during the design process, ensuring the park truly reflects the needs and dreams of the community.
Mayor Tracey Bailey captured the spirit of the occasion: “The opening is about more than a skate park and ramps and rails. It’s about investing in youth… It belongs to the community, and reflects the energy, ideas, and support of the community members who helped see it come together.”
A memorial monument to Blake, first installed in 2005, now stands in the heart of the new skate park—a reminder of how one person’s passion can spark a movement and leave a mark that endures.
With $300,000 invested from the 2025 Budget, the project includes state-of-the-art ramps, new concrete work, and welcoming site amenities, making it a vibrant hub for friendship, fun, and personal growth.
As skaters of all ages carve new memories, Blake’s legacy lives on—rolling forward, inspiring, and reminding everyone that one person’s love can lift an entire community.