Later, Skaters

Skateworld, a Linda Vista landmark on Linda Vista Road, is on its way to extinction after the San Diego Redevelopment Agency approved a negotiation agreement on June 15 with a development company for the agency-owned property.

Despite a plea from constituents and Gary Stang — owner and operator of the indoor skating rink for the past 34 years — the agency approved the exclusive agreement with MRW Group.

The tentative plan from the developer is a massive renovation and improvement project that would provide the neighborhood with a modern community and recreation center.

“I am asking you to please deny this exclusive negotiation agreement with this developer,” said Stang during last week’s city-council meeting. “We are the last roller-skating rink the city of San Diego. When we’re gone, that’ll probably be it for [indoor] roller-skaters in San Diego.”

Stang argued that his business has drawn visitors from all over San Diego County and made a lot of positive contributions to the community, including fundraisers, activities for all ages, and jobs. The absence of Skateworld will impact the entire community, he said.

During the non-agenda public comment portion of the June 22 city-council meeting, another citizen spoke up to express disappointment in the agency’s decision: “I don’t know what we can do because you already voted on this…. I just think you’re making a really bad decision, and I think this issue needs to be readdressed. Maybe you can go there on a Saturday or a Sunday and really see what [Skateworld] does for the community,” said Adela Falk.