4.17. SR 12-21-2015 EGty1� ,.,�� Request for Action
River
To Item Number
Mayor and City Council 4.17
Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by
Consent December 21, 2015 Steve Benoit,Recreation Manager
Item Description Reviewed by
Hire Consultant to Provide Design Services for the Michael Hecker, Parks and Recreation Director
Orono Park Skate Park. Reviewed by
Cal Portner, City Administrator
Action Requested
Adopt,by motion, the Agreement for Professional Services to hire Spohn Ranch Skateparks to design the
Orono Park skate park.
Background/Discussion
A Request for Proposal (RFP) was drafted and advertised for professional design services. Seven
proposals were received.
■ $13,210 Wally Hollyday ■ $31,798 Stantec
■ $18,000 Evergreen ■ $31,829 WSB
■ $23,500 Spohn Ranch ■ $49,850 Grindline
■ $25,000 1Vlisiano
Following an internal review, Spohn Ranch received the strongest support for the project due their firm's
strength in the following areas:
■ Community Engagement
■ Consultant Fee
■ Company History with Skate Park Design Work
■ Understanding of Project Scope
Per state law, the city may choose the lowest responsible bidder for professional services contracts,not
necessarily the lowest bid.
At the Dec. 7, 2015, Council meeting, the Council directed staff to have the Parks and Recreation
Commission review the request. On Dec, 9, 2015 the Parks and Recreation Commission unanimously
supported the request. Following approval, design work will begin this January,2016.
Financial Impact
This will be funded from the Park Improvement Fund where $35,000 has been budgeted.
Attachments
■ Agreement of Professional Services
■ Request for Proposals Orono Park Skate Park
■ Spohn Ranch Proposal (in Dropbox separate
POWERED 6T
A IR
13065 Orono Parkway
Elk River, MN 55330
STANDARD AGREEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
THIS AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made this21st day of December, 2015, between the City of Elk River,
Minnesota (“City”), whose business address is 13065 Orono Parkway, Elk River, MN 55330 and Spohn Ranch
Skate Parks (“Consultant”) whose business address is 6824 S. Centinela Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90230.
PRELIMINARY STATEMENT
The City has adopted a policy regarding the selection and hiring of consultants to provide a variety of
professional services for City projects. That policy requires that persons, firms, or corporations providing such
services enter into written agreements with the City. The purpose of this agreement is to set forth the terms and
conditions for the professional services Consultant will provide in connection with Design of the Orono Park
skate park, herein referred to as the “Work”.
The City and Consultant agree as follows:
1. Work. The Consultant agrees to provide the professional services described in Exhibit “A” attached hereto
(the “Work”).
2. Time for Performance of Services. The Consultant shall perform the services described in Exhibit A
according to the schedule attached as Exhibit B, hereto.
3. Compensation for Services. City agrees to pay the Consultant $ 23,500 for the Work. Any changes in the
scope of the Work which may result in additional compensation due to the Consultant shall require prior
written approval by an authorized representative of the City or by the City Council. The City will not pay
additional compensation for services that do not have prior written authorization.
4. The City agrees to provide the Consultant with the information required to complete the Work.
5. Method of Payment. The Consultant shall submit itemized bills for professional services performed under
this Agreement on a monthly basis. Bills submitted shall be paid in the same manner as other claims made
to the City.
6. Project Manager and Staffing. The Consultant has designated the individuals identified in Exhibit A as
the Project Manager to serve on the Project. The Project Manager shall be assisted by other staff members
as necessary to facilitate the completion of the Project in accordance with the terms established herein.
Consultant may not remove or replace the Project Manager without the approval of the City.
7. Standard of Care. Standard of Care. Consultant shall exercise the same degree of care, skill and diligence
in the performance of the Work as is ordinarily exercised by members of the profession under similar
circumstances in Minnesota. Consultant shall be liable to the fullest extent permitted under applicable law,
without limitation, for any injuries, loss, or damages proximately caused by Consultant’s breach of this
standard of care. Consultant shall put forth reasonable efforts to complete its duties in a timely manner.
Consultant shall not be responsible for delays caused by factors beyond its control or that could not be
reasonably foreseen at the time of execution of this Agreement. Consultant shall be responsible for costs or
damages arising from unreasonable delays in the completion of the Work.
8. Audit Disclosure. The Consultant shall allow the City or its duly authorized agents reasonable access to
such of the Consultant’s books and records as are pertinent to the work performed under this Agreement.
Any reports, information, data, etc. given to, or prepared or assembled by, the Consultant under this
Agreement which the City requests to be kept confidential shall not be made available to any individual or
organization without the City’s prior written approval. All finished or unfinished documents, data, studies,
surveys, drawings, maps, models, photographs, and reports prepared by the Consultant shall become the
property of the City upon termination of this Agreement, but Consultant may retain copies of such
documents as records of the services provided.
9. Term. The term of the Agreement shall be from December 21, 2015 through May 16, 2016 at which time
final site plans, specifications, construction documents, and construction cost estimates for the Orono Park
skate park must be received by the City. This Agreement may be extended upon the written mutual
consent of the parties for such additional period as they deem appropriate, and upon the terms and
conditions as herein stated.
10. Termination. This Agreement may be terminated by the Consultant effective upon sixty (60) days’ written
notice delivered to the City at the address written above. The City may terminate this Agreement effective
immediately, upon written notice to the consultant. Upon termination under this provision, the Consultant
shall be paid for services rendered and reimbursable expenses until the effective date of termination.
If, however the City terminates this Agreement because the Consultant has failed to perform in accordance
with this Agreement, no further payment shall be made to the Consultant, and the City may retain another
consultant to undertake or complete the Work.
11. Independent Consultant. At all times and for all purposes herein, the Consultant is an independent
contractor and not an employee of the City. No statement herein shall be construed so as to find the
Consultant an employee of the City.
12. Non-Discrimination. During the performance of this Agreement, the Consultant shall not discriminate
against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin,
sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, or age. The Consultant shall post in
places available to employees and applicants for employment, notices setting forth the provision of this non-
discrimination clause and stating that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The
Consultant shall incorporate the foregoing requirements of this paragraph in all of its subcontracts for
program work, and will require all of its subcontractors for such work to incorporate such requirements in
all subcontracts for program work.
13. Assignment. Neither party shall assign this Agreement, nor any interest arising herein, without the prior
written consent of the other party.
14. Services Not Provided For. No claim for services furnished by the Consultant not specifically provided
for in Exhibit A shall be honored by the City.
15. Severability. The provisions of this Agreement are severable. If any portion hereof is, for any reason, held
by a court of competent jurisdiction to be contrary to law, such decision shall not affect the remaining
provisions of this Agreement.
16. Entire Agreement. The entire agreement of the parties is contained herein. This Agreement supersedes all
oral agreements and negotiations between the parties relating to the subject matter hereof as well as any
previous agreements presently in effect between the parties relating to the subject matter hereof. Any
alterations, amendments, deletions, or waivers of the provisions of this Agreement shall be valid only when
expressed in writing and duly signed by the parties, unless otherwise provided herein.
17. Compliance with Laws and Regulations. In providing services hereunder, the Consultant shall abide by
all statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations pertaining to the provisions of services to be provided. The
Consultant and City, together with their respective agents and employees, agree to abide by the provisions
of the Minnesota Data Practices Act, Minnesota Statutes Section 13, as amended, and Minnesota Rules
promulgated pursuant to Chapter 13. Any violation of statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations pertaining
to the services to be provided shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement and entitle the City to
immediately terminate this Agreement.
18. Waiver. Any waiver by either party of a breach of any provision of this Agreement shall not affect, in any
respect, the validity of the remainder of this Agreement.
19. Indemnification. Consultant agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City and its officials,
employees and agents from any liability, claims, damages, costs, losses judgments, or expenses, including
reasonable attorney’s fees, resulting directly or indirectly from a negligent act or omission (including without
limitation professional errors or omissions) of the Consultant, its agents, employees, or subcontractors in
the performance of the services provided by this Agreement and against all losses by reason of the failure of
said Consultant fully to perform, in any respect, all obligations under this Agreement.
20. Insurance.
A. General Liability. Prior to starting the Work, Consultant shall procure, maintain and pay for such
insurance as will protect against claims for bodily injury or death, or for damage to property,
including loss of use, which may arise out of operations by Consultant or by any subcontractor or by
anyone employed by any of them or by anyone for whose acts any of them may be liable. Such
insurance shall include, but not be limited to, minimum coverages and limits of liability specified in
this Paragraph, or required by law. The policy(ies) shall name the City as an additional insured for
the services provided under this Agreement and shall provide that the Consultant’s coverage shall be
primary and noncontributory in the event of a loss.
B. Consultant shall procure and maintain the following minimum insurance coverages and limits of
liability on this Project:
Workers Compensation Statutory Limits
Employer’s Liability $500,000 each accident
$500,000 disease policy limit
$500,000 disease each employee
Comprehensive General
Liability $1,500,000 property damage and
bodily injury per occurrence
$2,000,000 general aggregate
$2,000,000 Products – Complete
Operations Aggregate
$100,000 fire legal liability each
occurrence
$5,000 medical expense
Comprehensive Automobile
Liability $1,000,000 combined single limit each
accident (shall include coverage for all
owned, hired and non-owned vehicles.
Umbrella or Excess Liability $1,000,000
C. The Comprehensive General/Commercial General Liability policy(ies) shall be equivalent in
coverage to ISO form CG 0001, and shall include the following:
a. Premises and Operations coverage with no explosions, collapse, or underground damage
exclusion (XCU).
b. Products and Completed Operations coverage. Consultant agrees to maintain this coverage
for a minimum of two (2) years following completion of its work. Said coverage shall apply
to bodily injury and property damage arising out of the products-completed operations
hazard.
c. Personal injury with Employment Exclusion (if any) deleted.
d. Broad Form CG 0001 0196 Contractual Liability coverage, or its equivalent.
e. Broad Form Property Damage coverage, including completed operations, or its equivalent.
f. Additional Insured Endorsement(s), naming the “City of Elk River” as an Additional
Insured, on ISO form CG 20 10 07 04 or such other endorsement form as is approved by
the City.
g. If the Work to be performed is on an attached community, there shall be no exclusion for
attached or condominium projects.
h. “Stop gap” coverage for work in those states where Workers’ Compensation Insurance is
provided through a state fund if Employer’s liability coverage is not available.
i. Severability of Insureds provision.
D. Professional Liability Insurance. The Consultant agrees to provide to the City a certificate
evidencing that they have in effect, with an insurance company in good standing and authorized to
do business in Minnesota, a professional liability insurance policy. Said policy shall insure payment
of damage for legal liability arising out of the performance of professional services for the City. Said
policy shall provide an aggregate limit of $2,000,000. Said policy shall not name the City as an
insured.
E. Consultant shall maintain in effect all insurance coverages required under this Agreement at
Consultant’s sole expense and with insurance companies licensed to do business in the state in
Minnesota and having a current A.M. Best rating of no less than A-, unless specifically accepted by
City in writing. In addition to the requirements stated above, the following applies to the insurance
policies required under this Paragraph:
a. All policies, except the Professional Liability Insurance policy, shall be written on an
“occurrence” form (“claims made” and “modified occurrence” forms are not acceptable);
b. All policies, except the Professional Liability Insurance policy, shall be applied on a “per
project” basis;
c. All policies, except the Professional Liability Insurance and Worker’s Compensation Policies,
shall contain a waiver of subrogation naming “the City of Elk River”;
d. All policies, except the Professional Liability Insurance and Worker’s Compensation Policies,
shall name “the City of Elk River” as an additional insured;
e. All policies, except the Professional Liability Insurance and Worker’s Compensation Policies,
shall insure the defense and indemnity obligations assumed by Consultant under this
Agreement; and
f. All policies shall contain a provision that coverages afforded thereunder shall not be
canceled or non-renewed, nor shall coverage limits be reduced by endorsement, without
thirty (30) days prior written notice to the City.
A copy of the Consultant’s Certificate of Insurance which evidences the compliance with
this Paragraph 20, must be filed with City prior to the start of Consultant’s Work. Upon
request, a copy of the Consultant’s insurance declaration page, Rider and/or Endorsement, as
applicable shall be provided. Such documents evidencing Insurance shall be in a form acceptable to
City and shall provide satisfactory evidence that Consultant has complied with all insurance
requirements. Renewal certificates shall be provided to City prior to the expiration date of any of
the required policies. City will not be obligated, however, to review such Certificate of Insurance,
declaration page, Rider, Endorsement or certificates or other evidence of insurance, or to advise
Consultant of any deficiencies in such documents and receipt thereof shall not relieve Consultant
from, nor be deemed a waiver of, City’s right to enforce the terms of Consultant’s obligations
hereunder. City reserves the right to examine any policy provided for under this paragraph.
F. Effect of Consultant’s Failure to Provide Insurance. If Consultant fails to provide the specified
insurance, then Consultant will defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City, the City’s officials,
agents and employees from any loss, claim, liability and expense (including reasonable attorney’s fees
and expenses of litigation) to the extent necessary to afford the same protection as would have been
provided by the specified insurance. Except to the extent prohibited by law, this indemnity applies
regardless of any strict liability or negligence attributable to the City (including sole negligence) and
regardless of the extent to which the underlying occurrence (i.e., the event giving rise to a claim
which would have been covered by the specified insurance) is attributable to the negligent or
otherwise wrongful act or omission (including breach of contract) of Consultant, its subcontractors,
agents, employees, or delegates. Consultant agrees that this indemnity shall be construed and
applied in favor of indemnification. Consultant also agrees that if applicable law limits or precludes
any aspect of this indemnity, then the indemnity will be considered limited only to the extent
necessary to comply with that applicable law. The stated indemnity continues until all applicable
statutes of limitation have run.
If a claim arises within the scope of the stated indemnity, the City may require Consultant to:
a. Furnish and pay for a surety bond, satisfactory to the City, guaranteeing performance of the
indemnity obligation; or
b. Furnish a written acceptance of tender of defense and indemnity from Consultant’s
insurance company.
Consultant will take the action required by the City within fifteen (15) days of receiving notice from
the City.
21. Records Access. The Consultant shall provide the City access to any books, documents, papers, and
records which are directly pertinent to the specific contract, for the purpose of making audit, examination,
excerpts, and transcriptions, for three years after final payments and all other pending matters related to this
contract are closed.
22. Ownership of Documents. All plans, diagrams, analyses, reports and information generated in connection
with the performance of the Agreement (“Information”) shall become the property of the City. The City
may use the Information for its purposes and the Contractor also may use the Information for its purposes.
Reuse of the Information for the purposes of the project contemplated by this Agreement (“Project”) does
not relieve any liability on the part of the Contractor, but any reuse of the Information by the City or the
Contractor beyond the scope of the Project is without liability to the other, and the party reusing the
Information agrees to defend and indemnify the other from any claims or liability resulting therefrom.
23. Subcontractor. The Consultant shall not enter into subcontracts for services provided under this
Agreement except as noted in Exhibit A, without the express written consent of the City. The Consultant
shall pay any subcontractor involved in the performance of this Agreement within the ten (10) days of the
Consultant’s receipt of payment by the City for undisputed services provided by the subcontractor. If the
Consultant fails within that time to pay the subcontractor any undisputed amount for which the Consultant
has received payment by the City, the Consultant shall pay interest to the subcontractor on the unpaid
amount at the rate of 1.5 percent per month or any part of a month. The minimum monthly interest
penalty payment for an unpaid balance of $100 or more is $10. For an unpaid balance of less than $100, the
Consultant shall pay the actual interest penalty due to the subcontractor. A subcontractor who prevails in a
civil action to collect interest penalties from the Consultant shall be awarded its costs and disbursements,
including attorney’s fees, incurred in bringing the action. In addition, no subcontractor can file a lien against
the City.
24. Dispute Resolution/Mediation. Each dispute, claim or controversy arising from or related to this
Agreement or the relationships which result from this Agreement shall be subject to mediation as a
condition precedent to initiating arbitration or legal or equitable actions by either party. Unless the parties
agree otherwise, the mediation shall be in accordance with the Commercial Mediation Procedures of the
American Arbitration Association then currently in effect. A request for mediation shall be filed in writing
with the American Arbitration Association and the other party. No arbitration or legal or equitable action
may be instituted for a period of ninety (90) days from the filing of the request for mediation unless a longer
period of time is provided by agreement of the parties. Cost of mediation shall be shared equally between
the parties. Mediation shall be held in the City of Elk River unless another location is mutually agreed upon
by the parties. The parties shall memorialize any agreement resulting from the mediation in a Mediated
Settlement Agreement, which Agreement shall be enforceable as a settlement in any court having
jurisdiction thereof.
25. Conflicts. No salaried officer or employee of the City and no member of the City Council of the City shall
have a financial interest, direct or indirect, in this Agreement. The violation of this provision renders the
Agreement void. Any federal regulations and applicable state statutes shall not be violated.
26. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in multiple counterparts, each of which shall be
considered an original.
27. Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement of the parties and supersedes all prior
communications, understandings and agreements relating to the subject matter hereof, whether oral or
written.
28. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be controlled by laws of the State of Minnesota. Executed as of
the day and year first written above.
City of Elk River
____________________________________
Mayor
____________________________________
City Clerk
Firm Name
By:_________________________________
Its:_________________________________
Request f or Proposals
Orono Park Skate Park
Section 1 General Information
All correspondence regarding this Request for Proposal (RFP) must be addressed to:
Steve Benoit
Recreation Manager
City of Elk River
13065 Orono Parkway
Elk River, MN 55330
SBenoit@ElkRiverMN.gov
All questions must be received before 4:00 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2015. Questions received after
that time will not receive a response.
Proposals will be accepted until 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 5, 2015.
Please submit five (5) hard copies and one (1) pdf copy of your firm’s proposal.
Acceptance of Proposal Contents
The contents of this RFP and attached information provided to the proposer will be included as part of the
contractual obligations if a contract ensues. All information in the proposal is subject to disclosure under
the provisions of Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13 – Minnesota Government Data Practices Act.
All persons or companies whom download this RFP are requested to register their name and email address
by sending an email to sbenoit@ElkRiverMNgov. Any revisions to or corrections on this RFP, after it has
been advertised, will be communicated to those registered RFP holders. Failure to register your contact
information as described is at your own risk. A proposal will not be considered if it fails to include all
requested information as detailed in this original RFP and any subsequent modifications.
Proposal Timeline
Submission of proposals November 5, 2015 by 4:00 p.m.
Consultant approved by City Council November 16, 2015
Final report and project completion May 16, 2016
Project Overview
The intent of this request is to obtain the services of a design firm, hereinafter referred to as the
“Consultant” to perform consultant services for the City of Elk River, Minnesota, hereinafter referred to as
the “City.” Services of a multi-disciplinary team with skate park design, landscaping, and construction plan
experience is required to assist staff preparing plans for the elements outlined in this proposal. Anticipated
disciplines should include landscape architecture and structural engineering. The city is seeking proposals
for a Consultant to fully design a concrete skate park at “Orono” Park.
Section 2 Project Description
The Consultant services to be performed are for engineering and landscape design services for the
following:
1. Site plans for the Orono skate park.
2. Plans, specifications, and construction documents for the Orono skate park.
3. Construction cost estimates for the Orono skate park.
Orono Park Skate Park Description
Orono Park is located at 18599 Gary Street in Elk River, Minnesota. The park is 28 acres in size and is
adjacent to the west shore of Lake Orono south of Highway 10. An area on the north side of the park has
been allocated for the skate park (see attachment 1). Orono has been designated as a signature park of the
Elk River system, and offers the following amenities:
Boat Landing
Fishing Pier
Off Leash Dog Park
Open Play Area
Park Shelters
Parking
Picnic Area
Picnic Tables
Destination Playground
Scenic Views
Softball
Swimming Beach
Trails - Paved
Sand Volleyball
WiFi
Orono is also in close proximity to the Elk River YMCA, Dave Anderson Athletic Complex, Sherburne County
Fairgrounds, Elk River Library, and the Elk River civic complex which includes city hall, fire department and police
department.
The original Elk River skate park was located at Lion John Weicht Park and was constructed in 2004. The park
incorporated modular skating features resting on a concrete pad. The modular skating features were removed in
2013 due to ongoing maintenance issues and liability concerns.
In 2013 the Elk River Parks and Recreation Commission formed a skate park committee comprised of members
from Parks and Recreation staff, the Parks and Recreation Commission, and interested community members. The
primary input that came from the users was a park that has an emphasis on good “flow” and is composed of
concrete for durability and a quality riding surface. Also recommended by the users was to relocate the skate park
to Orono, which was also recommended in the Elk River Parks and Recreation Master Park Plan adopted by City
Council in June of 2015.
Section 3 Overall Scope of Services
The services required of the Consultant are anticipated to be provided beginning in November of 2015 and ending
after final acceptance of the skate park plan and construction documents. The selected Consultant shall be the
overall project lead and manager on behalf of the City. The Consultant shall report to and take direction from city
staff as directed by the City Council.
The Consultant’s proposal should include a detailed scope and budget estimate for all services as outlined in this
RFP. Each element must be broken out as a separate item.
The City stresses Consultant’s innovation, uniqueness and ingenuity in proposing scope of services. Recommended
changes to the scope will be considered and concerns regarding budget and time frames should also be identified.
The City proposes a team approach in the development of the design utilizing the services of the Consultant in
conjunction with the Parks and Recreation staff, Parks and Recreation Commission, and the Skate Park Committee.
Management Services
The Consultant will serve as assistant to the Recreation Manager throughout all elements of the skate park design
project. Services rendered shall include as a minimum:
1. Assistance in defining the maximum utilization of project resources in completing the scope of services,
taking into account budget and time frame constraints.
2. Assistance in preparing documents, graphics and mapping standards applicable to all.
Design and Construction Drawings
The Consultant shall:
1. Define materials and construction systems for a concrete skate park at Orono
2. Design drainage system to take into account the proximity to Orono Lake.
3. Develop outline specifications for the scope of the project.
4. Review draft and final design development sets with Parks and Recreation staff, the Parks and Recreation
Commission and the Skate Park Committee.
5. Drawings must include all costs, details, cross section, and profiles necessary to bid the project.
6. An additional cost option taking into consideration the reduced cost impact of utilizing donated concrete
and labor.
Section 4 Proposals
The proposal shall contain the type of information summarized below. Additional information is allowable,
providing it is directly relevant to the proposed project.
Proposal Format
The submittal should follow the Table of Contents listed below:
1. General Firm Introduction (include your firms expertise on the subject of this project)
2. Project Understanding
3. Project Approach
4. Proposed Project Team and Experience
5. Schedule
6. Statement Explaining Why Your Firm Should be Selected to Perform Services for This Project
7. Additional Information
8. Total Consultant Cost
9. Insurance Certificate
A brief description of each section is as follows:
1. General Firm Introduction
Give general information and a brief history of the consulting firm.
2. Project Understanding
Include a summary of the Consultant’s understanding of this project.
3. Project Approach
Provide specific approaches, methods, and assumptions that will be utilized to accomplish each work item.
4. Proposed Project Team and Experience
Identify the key project team members and describe their specific roles on the project. Include key team
members from sub consultant firms, if any.
Describe relevant experience and provide information on at least three (3) reference projects completed
in the last six (6) years. Provide references and contact information.
Include one-page resumes for key project team members, including field personnel.
5. Schedule
The project will begin as soon as a consultant is selected. The Consultant is to propose a schedule that
shows how this project will be delivered. The schedule should include a list of key tasks within each phase,
key milestones and approximate dates, and deliverables.
6. Statement Why your firm should be selected to perform services for this project
Several firms have been asked to respond to this Request for Proposal. Explain why your firm is the best
qualified for this project.
7. Additional Information
Include any other information that is believed to be pertinent, but not specifically requested elsewhere in
this RFP.
8. Total Consultant Cost
The Consultant cost should be separated as follows:
a. Not to exceed cost.
b. Hourly rates for all consultant employees expected to work on this project. These rates shall be the
agreed upon costs for any additional services requested by the City, above what has been detailed in
the RFP.
c. Reimbursable costs including detail of service or item and applicable charge per unit.
Proposals that do not include a ‘Not to Exceed’ cost will be disregarded without further consideration. It is
the responsibility of the proposing firm to accurately predict the amount of time they require for services.
9. Insurance Certificate
Indicate ability to provide all necessary insurance certificates.
Section 5 Consultant Selection
Proposals will be reviewed and evaluated by City staff and based on the following criteria:
1. Consulting firm and key project staff experience.
2. Proven track record in successfully completing similar projects on time and within budget. Successful
experience of the firm and the individual team members will be considered.
3. Proposed approach to completing the project.
4. Proposed project schedule.
5. Proposed consultant cost.
6. References.
Following review of the proposals by the Parks and Recreation staff, only selected Consultants may be asked to
make oral presentations of their proposals to City representatives. Upon conclusion of the presentations, staff will
select a Consultant to negotiate a contract as follows:
1. If for any reason, a firm is not able to commence the services in that firm’s proposal within 30 days of the
award, the City reserves the right to contract with another qualified firm.
2. The City shall not be liable for any expenses incurred by the Consultant prior to the signing of a contract
including, but not limited to, the Proposal preparation, attendance at interviews, and/or final contract
negotiations.
3. The Proposal must be signed in ink by an official authorized to bind the Consultant to its provisions that
will be included as part of an eventual contract. The proposal must include a statement as to the period
during which the proposal remains valid. This period must be at least 90 days from the date of the
submittal.
4. The City reserves the right to reject any and all proposals or to request additional information from any or
all of the proposing firms.
Section 6 Contract Terms and Conditions
Upon selection of a Consultant, an Agreement or Contract for Services shall be entered into by the City and the
Consultant. The standard City contract is attached. It is expected that the contract will provide for compensation
for actual work completed on a not to exceed basis, with the following conditions.
1. Deletions of specific components, such as individual project meetings, will be at the discretion of the City.
Payment or reimbursement shall be made based on actual tasks completed on the project plus necessary
subcontractor work (as applicable) and out-of-pocket expenses. Billing that exceeds the not to exceed
amount will not be compensated unless a contract extension has been approved in advance by the City
Council.
2. The City shall retain ownership of all documents, plans, maps, reports and data prepared under this
proposal. In addition to being provided hard copies and digital documents throughout the project, the
consultant shall supply the City with a fully-scanned (Laserfiche) project file upon completion.
3. If, for any reason, the Consultant is unable to fulfill the obligations under the contract in a timely and
proper manner, the City reserves the right to terminate the contract by written notice. In this event, the
firm shall be entitled to just and equitable compensation for any satisfactory work completed to that point at
the discretion of the Parks and Recreation Director.
4. The Consultant shall not assign or transfer any interest in the contract without prior written consent of the
City.
5. The Consultant shall maintain comprehensive general liability insurance in accordance with Section 466.04
of the Minnesota Statutes.
6. The Consultant shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City of Elk River, its officials, employees and
agents, from any and all claims, causes of action, lawsuits, damages, losses or expenses, including attorney
fees, arising out of or resulting from the Consultant’s (including its officials, agents, subconsultants or
employees) performance of the duties required under the contract, provided that any such claim, damages,
loss or expense is attributable to bodily injury, sickness, diseases or death or injury to or destruction of
property including the loss of use resulting therefrom and is caused in whole or in part by any negligent act
or omission or willful misconduct of Consultant.
7. The Consultant contract shall be governed by the laws of the State of Minnesota.
8. Project summaries shall be submitted with each invoice during the course of the project. Each summary
shall detail the amount billed to date, outstanding work items with costs to completion, and timelines.
Invoices submitted to the City shall include a detailed breakdown of all chargeable items for that period.
Section 6 Appendix
Orono Park Master Park Plan Concept (1)
Standard Professional Services Agreement
13065 Orono Parkway
Elk River, MN 55330
STANDARD AGREEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
THIS AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made this____ day of ________, 20___, between the City of Elk River,
Minnesota (“City”), whose business address is 13065 Orono Parkway, Elk River, MN 55330 and
_________________________________ (“Consultant”) whose business address is
________________________________________________.
PRELIMINARY STATEMENT
The City has adopted a policy regarding the selection and hiring of consultants to provide a variety of
professional services for City projects. That policy requires that persons, firms, or corporations providing such
services enter into written agreements with the City. The purpose of this agreement is to set forth the terms and
conditions for the professional services Consultant will provide in connection with
_______________________________, herein referred to as the “Work”.
The City and Consultant agree as follows:
1. Work. The Consultant agrees to provide the professional services described in Exhibit “A” attached hereto
(the “Work”).
2. Time for Performance of Services. The Consultant shall perform the services described in Exhibit A
according to the schedule attached as Exhibit B, hereto.
3. Compensation for Services. City agrees to pay the Consultant $ _______ for the Work. Any changes in
the scope of the Work which may result in additional compensation due to the Consultant shall require
prior written approval by an authorized representative of the City or by the City Council. The City will not
pay additional compensation for services that do not have prior written authorization.
4. The City agrees to provide the Consultant with the information required to complete the Work.
5. Method of Payment. The Consultant shall submit itemized bills for professional services performed under
this Agreement on a monthly basis. Bills submitted shall be paid in the same manner as other claims made
to the City.
6. Project Manager and Staffing. The Consultant has designated the individuals identified in Exhibit A as
the Project Manager to serve on the Project. The Project Manager shall be assisted by other staff members
as necessary to facilitate the completion of the Project in accordance with the terms established herein.
Consultant may not remove or replace the Project Manager without the approval of the City.
Attachment 2
7. Standard of Care. Standard of Care. Consultant shall exercise the same degree of care, skill and diligence
in the performance of the Work as is ordinarily exercised by members of the profession under similar
circumstances in Minnesota. Consultant shall be liable to the fullest extent permitted under applicable law,
without limitation, for any injuries, loss, or damages proximately caused by Consultant’s breach of this
standard of care. Consultant shall put forth reasonable efforts to complete its duties in a timely manner.
Consultant shall not be responsible for delays caused by factors beyond its control or that could not be
reasonably foreseen at the time of execution of this Agreement. Consultant shall be responsible for costs or
damages arising from unreasonable delays in the completion of the Work.
8. Audit Disclosure. The Consultant shall allow the City or its duly authorized agents reasonable access to
such of the Consultant’s books and records as are pertinent to the work performed under this Agreement.
Any reports, information, data, etc. given to, or prepared or assembled by, the Consultant under this
Agreement which the City requests to be kept confidential shall not be made available to any individual or
organization without the City’s prior written approval. All finished or unfinished documents, data, studies,
surveys, drawings, maps, models, photographs, and reports prepared by the Consultant shall become the
property of the City upon termination of this Agreement, but Consultant may retain copies of such
documents as records of the services provided.
9. Term. The term of the Agreement shall be from ____ through ____ the date of signature by the parties
notwithstanding. This Agreement may be extended upon the written mutual consent of the parties for such
additional period as they deem appropriate, and upon the terms and conditions as herein stated.
10. Termination. This Agreement may be terminated by the Consultant effective upon sixty (60) days’ written
notice delivered to the City at the address written above. The City may terminate this Agreement effective
immediately, upon with notice to the consultant. Upon termination under this provision, the Consultant
shall be paid for services rendered and reimbursable expenses until the effective date of termination.
If, however the City terminates this Agreement because the Consultant has failed to perform in accordance
with this Agreement, no further payment shall be made to the Consultant, and the City may retain another
consultant to undertake or complete the Work.
11. Independent Consultant. At all times and for all purposes herein, the Consultant is an independent
contractor and not an employee of the City. No statement herein shall be construed so as to find the
Consultant an employee of the City.
12. Non-Discrimination. During the performance of this Agreement, the Consultant shall not discriminate
against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin,
sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, or age. The Consultant shall post in
places available to employees and applicants for employment, notices setting forth the provision of this non-
discrimination clause and stating that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The
Consultant shall incorporate the foregoing requirements of this paragraph in all of its subcontracts for
program work, and will require all of its subcontractors for such work to incorporate such requirements in
all subcontracts for program work.
13. Assignment. Neither party shall assign this Agreement, nor any interest arising herein, without the prior
written consent of the other party.
14. Services Not Provided For. No claim for services furnished by the Consultant not specifically provided
for in Exhibit A shall be honored by the City.
15. Severability. The provisions of this Agreement are severable. If any portion hereof is, for any reason, held
by a court of competent jurisdiction to be contrary to law, such decision shall not affect the remaining
provisions of this Agreement.
16. Entire Agreement. The entire agreement of the parties is contained herein. This Agreement supersedes all
oral agreements and negotiations between the parties relating to the subject matter hereof as well as any
previous agreements presently in effect between the parties relating to the subject matter hereof. Any
alterations, amendments, deletions, or waivers of the provisions of this Agreement shall be valid only when
expressed in writing and duly signed by the parties, unless otherwise provided herein.
17. Compliance with Laws and Regulations. In providing services hereunder, the Consultant shall abide by
all statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations pertaining to the provisions of services to be provided. The
Consultant and City, together with their respective agents and employees, agree to abide by the provisions
of the Minnesota Data Practices Act, Minnesota Statutes Section 13, as amended, and Minnesota Rules
promulgated pursuant to Chapter 13. Any violation of statutes, ordinances, rules and regulations pertaining
to the services to be provided shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement and entitle the City to
immediately terminate this Agreement.
18. Waiver. Any waiver by either party of a breach of any provision of this Agreement shall not affect, in any
respect, the validity of the remainder of this Agreement.
19. Indemnification. Consultant agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City and its officials,
employees and agents from any liability, claims, damages, costs, losses judgments, or expenses, including
reasonable attorney’s fees, resulting directly or indirectly from a negligent act or omission (including without
limitation professional errors or omissions) of the Consultant, its agents, employees, or subcontractors in
the performance of the services provided by this Agreement and against all losses by reason of the failure of
said Consultant fully to perform, in any respect, all obligations under this Agreement.
20. Insurance.
A. General Liability. Prior to starting the Work, Consultant shall procure, maintain and pay for such
insurance as will protect against claims for bodily injury or death, or for damage to property,
including loss of use, which may arise out of operations by Consultant or by any subcontractor or by
anyone employed by any of them or by anyone for whose acts any of them may be liable. Such
insurance shall include, but not be limited to, minimum coverages and limits of liability specified in
this Paragraph, or required by law. The policy(ies) shall name the City as an additional insured for
the services provided under this Agreement and shall provide that the Consultant’s coverage shall be
primary and noncontributory in the event of a loss.
B. Consultant shall procure and maintain the following minimum insurance coverages and limits of
liability on this Project:
Workers Compensation Statutory Limits
Employer’s Liability $500,000 each accident
$500,000 disease policy limit
$500,000 disease each employee
Comprehensive General
Liability $1,500,000 property damage and
bodily injury per occurrence
$2,000,000 general aggregate
$2,000,000 Products – Complete
Operations Aggregate
$100,000 fire legal liability each
occurrence
$5,000 medical expense
Comprehensive Automobile
Liability $1,000,000 combined single limit each
accident (shall include coverage for all
owned, hired and non-owned vehicles.
Umbrella or Excess Liability $1,000,000
C. The Comprehensive General/Commercial General Liability policy(ies) shall be equivalent in
coverage to ISO form CG 0001, and shall include the following:
a. Premises and Operations coverage with no explosions, collapse, or underground damage
exclusion (XCU).
b. Products and Completed Operations coverage. Consultant agrees to maintain this coverage
for a minimum of two (2) years following completion of its work. Said coverage shall apply
to bodily injury and property damage arising out of the products-completed operations
hazard.
c. Personal injury with Employment Exclusion (if any) deleted.
d. Broad Form CG 0001 0196 Contractual Liability coverage, or its equivalent.
e. Broad Form Property Damage coverage, including completed operations, or its equivalent.
f. Additional Insured Endorsement(s), naming the “City of Elk River” as an Additional
Insured, on ISO form CG 20 10 07 04 or such other endorsement form as is approved by
the City.
g. If the Work to be performed is on an attached community, there shall be no exclusion for
attached or condominium projects.
h. “Stop gap” coverage for work in those states where Workers’ Compensation Insurance is
provided through a state fund if Employer’s liability coverage is not available.
i. Severability of Insureds provision.
D. Professional Liability Insurance. The Consultant agrees to provide to the City a certificate
evidencing that they have in effect, with an insurance company in good standing and authorized to
do business in Minnesota, a professional liability insurance policy. Said policy shall insure payment
of damage for legal liability arising out of the performance of professional services for the City. Said
policy shall provide an aggregate limit of $2,000,000. Said policy shall not name the City as an
insured.
E. Consultant shall maintain in effect all insurance coverages required under this Agreement at
Consultant’s sole expense and with insurance companies licensed to do business in the state in
Minnesota and having a current A.M. Best rating of no less than A-, unless specifically accepted by
City in writing. In addition to the requirements stated above, the following applies to the insurance
policies required under this Paragraph:
a. All policies, except the Professional Liability Insurance policy, shall be written on an
“occurrence” form (“claims made” and “modified occurrence” forms are not acceptable);
b. All policies, except the Professional Liability Insurance policy, shall be applied on a “per
project” basis;
c. All policies, except the Professional Liability Insurance and Worker’s Compensation Policies,
shall contain a waiver of subrogation naming “the City of Elk River”;
d. All policies, except the Professional Liability Insurance and Worker’s Compensation Policies,
shall name “the City of Elk River” as an additional insured;
e. All policies, except the Professional Liability Insurance and Worker’s Compensation Policies,
shall insure the defense and indemnity obligations assumed by Consultant under this
Agreement; and
f. All policies shall contain a provision that coverages afforded thereunder shall not be
canceled or non-renewed, nor shall coverage limits be reduced by endorsement, without
thirty (30) days prior written notice to the City.
A copy of the Consultant’s Certificate of Insurance which evidences the compliance with
this Paragraph 20, must be filed with City prior to the start of Consultant’s Work. Upon
request, a copy of the Consultant’s insurance declaration page, Rider and/or Endorsement, as
applicable shall be provided. Such documents evidencing Insurance shall be in a form acceptable to
City and shall provide satisfactory evidence that Consultant has complied with all insurance
requirements. Renewal certificates shall be provided to City prior to the expiration date of any of
the required policies. City will not be obligated, however, to review such Certificate of Insurance,
declaration page, Rider, Endorsement or certificates or other evidence of insurance, or to advise
Consultant of any deficiencies in such documents and receipt thereof shall not relieve Consultant
from, nor be deemed a waiver of, City’s right to enforce the terms of Consultant’s obligations
hereunder. City reserves the right to examine any policy provided for under this paragraph.
F. Effect of Consultant’s Failure to Provide Insurance. If Consultant fails to provide the specified
insurance, then Consultant will defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City, the City’s officials,
agents and employees from any loss, claim, liability and expense (including reasonable attorney’s fees
and expenses of litigation) to the extent necessary to afford the same protection as would have been
provided by the specified insurance. Except to the extent prohibited by law, this indemnity applies
regardless of any strict liability or negligence attributable to the City (including sole negligence) and
regardless of the extent to which the underlying occurrence (i.e., the event giving rise to a claim
which would have been covered by the specified insurance) is attributable to the negligent or
otherwise wrongful act or omission (including breach of contract) of Consultant, its subcontractors,
agents, employees, or delegates. Consultant agrees that this indemnity shall be construed and
applied in favor of indemnification. Consultant also agrees that if applicable law limits or precludes
any aspect of this indemnity, then the indemnity will be considered limited only to the extent
necessary to comply with that applicable law. The stated indemnity continues until all applicable
statutes of limitation have run.
If a claim arises within the scope of the stated indemnity, the City may require Consultant to:
a. Furnish and pay for a surety bond, satisfactory to the City, guaranteeing performance of the
indemnity obligation; or
b. Furnish a written acceptance of tender of defense and indemnity from Consultant’s
insurance company.
Consultant will take the action required by the City within fifteen (15) days of receiving notice from
the City.
21. Records Access. The Consultant shall provide the City access to any books, documents, papers, and
records which are directly pertinent to the specific contract, for the purpose of making audit, examination,
excerpts, and transcriptions, for three years after final payments and all other pending matters related to this
contract are closed.
22. Ownership of Documents. All plans, diagrams, analyses, reports and information generated in connection
with the performance of the Agreement (“Information”) shall become the property of the City. The City
may use the Information for its purposes and the Contractor also may use the Information for its purposes.
Reuse of the Information for the purposes of the project contemplated by this Agreement (“Project”) does
not relieve any liability on the part of the Contractor, but any reuse of the Information by the City or the
Contractor beyond the scope of the Project is without liability to the other, and the party reusing the
Information agrees to defend and indemnify the other from any claims or liability resulting therefrom.
23. Subcontractor. The Consultant shall not enter into subcontracts for services provided under this
Agreement except as noted in Exhibit A, without the express written consent of the City. The Consultant
shall pay any subcontractor involved in the performance of this Agreement within the ten (10) days of the
Consultant’s receipt of payment by the City for undisputed services provided by the subcontractor. If the
Consultant fails within that time to pay the subcontractor any undisputed amount for which the Consultant
has received payment by the City, the Consultant shall pay interest to the subcontractor on the unpaid
amount at the rate of 1.5 percent per month or any part of a month. The minimum monthly interest
penalty payment for an unpaid balance of $100 or more is $10. For an unpaid balance of less than $100, the
Consultant shall pay the actual interest penalty due to the subcontractor. A subcontractor who prevails in a
civil action to collect interest penalties from the Consultant shall be awarded its costs and disbursements,
including attorney’s fees, incurred in bringing the action. In addition, no subcontractor can file a lien against
the City.
24. Dispute Resolution/Mediation. Each dispute, claim or controversy arising from or related to this
Agreement or the relationships which result from this Agreement shall be subject to mediation as a
condition precedent to initiating arbitration or legal or equitable actions by either party. Unless the parties
agree otherwise, the mediation shall be in accordance with the Commercial Mediation Procedures of the
American Arbitration Association then currently in effect. A request for mediation shall be filed in writing
with the American Arbitration Association and the other party. No arbitration or legal or equitable action
may be instituted for a period of ninety (90) days from the filing of the request for mediation unless a longer
period of time is provided by agreement of the parties. Cost of mediation shall be shared equally between
the parties. Mediation shall be held in the City of Elk River unless another location is mutually agreed upon
by the parties. The parties shall memorialize any agreement resulting from the mediation in a Mediated
Settlement Agreement, which Agreement shall be enforceable as a settlement in any court having
jurisdiction thereof.
25. Conflicts. No salaried officer or employee of the City and no member of the City Council of the City shall
have a financial interest, direct or indirect, in this Agreement. The violation of this provision renders the
Agreement void. Any federal regulations and applicable state statutes shall not be violated.
26. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in multiple counterparts, each of which shall be
considered an original.
27. Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement of the parties and supersedes all prior
communications, understandings and agreements relating to the subject matter hereof, whether oral or
written.
28. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be controlled by laws of the State of Minnesota. Executed as of
the day and year first written above.
City of Elk River
____________________________________
Mayor
____________________________________
City Clerk
Firm Name
By:_________________________________
Its:_________________________________
V
SPOHN RANCH
iV + K}
PROPOSAL FOR
PROFESSIONAL SKATEPARK DESIGN SERVICES
SPOHN RANCH, INC. I P:626-330-5803 I F: 626-330-5503 1 W: SPOHNRANCH.COM
E: INFO@SPOHNRANCH.COM 6824 S CENTINELA AVE. LOS ANGELES, CA 90230
SPOHN RANCH DESIGN. BUILD. COME TOGETHER.
SPOHN RANCH, INC. | P 626-330-5803 | F 626-330-5503 | W SPOHNRANCH.COM
E INFO@SPOHNRANCH.COM | 6824 S CENTINELA AVE. LOS ANGELES, CA 90230
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 GENERAL FIRM INTRODUCTION
FIRM OVERVIEW
SPOHN RANCH AT A GLANCE
SECTION 2-3 PROJECT UNDERSTANDING & APPROACH
PHASE 1 – SCHEMATIC DESIGN
PHASE 2 – DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
PHASE 3 – CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
SECTION 4 PROJECT TEAM & EXPERIENCE
TEAM OVERVIEW & ORGANIZATION
AARON SPOHN – PRINCIPAL-IN-CHARGE
CHARLIE WILKINS – LEAD DESIGNER & DRAFTSMAN
VINCENT ONEL – PROJECT MANAGER
MATT MILLER – STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
KIRSTEN DERMER – ADMINISTRATIVE
PROJECT PORTFOLIO
DESIGN/BUILD IN CORPORATE SECTOR
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
CLIENT REFERENCES
SECTION 5 SCHEDULE
SECTION 8 TOTAL CONSULTANT COST
Steve Benoit, Recreation Manager
City of Elk River
13065 Orono Parkway
Elk River, MN 55330
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2015
RE: REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS – PROFESSIONAL SKATEPARK DESIGN SERVICES AT ORONO PARK
Dear Mr. Benoit,
I would like to thank you for the opportunity to present Spohn Ranch’s proposal for the professional skatepark
design services that will bring a flowing skateboarding landscape to Elk River’s Orono Park.
While Spohn Ranch was founded and remains based in California, through years of successful design and
design/build skatepark projects in the region, we have developed a significant Midwest presence and have become
well-versed in working intelligently and efficiently outside of our home state.
There are many factors which make Spohn Ranch the firm best qualified for this project – from 20+ years of award-
winning skatepark design experience to the passion and talents of our well-rounded staff. Beyond that, a clear
distinction is that the construction arm of our company ensures realistic cost estimating and guarantees that the
City will only need to advertise for construction bids one time.
Design-only firms are notorious for over-promising during the design phase and crossing their fingers as the
construction bids come in. Having never managed the complex process of building a skatepark and all that it entails
– ordering materials, renting equipment, managing sub-contractors, etc. – it is not surprising that their cost
estimates are consistently inaccurate.
While essentially guessing during the cost-estimating phase, design-only firms are also notorious for struggling to
find the level of engineering that makes sense for skatepark construction. They are either over-engineering the
park, wasting valuable dollars and making the build unnecessarily difficult and inefficient for the contractor, or
under-engineering and sacrificing the longevity and quality of the park.
With decades of first-hand experience building skateparks, we know how to design for cost-effective, intelligent
construction.
Our comprehensive design process, dedicated team members and legacy of success are detailed in the following
pages. I am authorized to represent our team in contract negotiations and can be contacted via the info below.
Sincerely yours,
Aaron Spohn, President & Founder
Spohn Ranch, Inc.
6824 S Centinela Los Angeles, CA 90230
626-330-5803 x202 (office) 818-612-7711 (cell)
Aaron@spohnranch.com
Spohn Ranch began as a community,
anchored by Aaron Spohn’s
backyard half-pipe, and grew into an
award-winning skatepark
design/build firm. A cornerstone of
action sports progression for over 20
years, Spohn Ranch’s backyard roots
have spread globally, culminating in
hundreds of cutting-edge creations.
FROM
PERMANENT
SKATEABLE
LANDSCAPES TO INNOVATIVE INSTALLATIONS FOR
HIGH-PROFILE EVENTS
Spohn Ranch has played an invaluable role in the exponential growth and development of action
sports. Spohn Ranch’s staff of dedicated professionals have spent considerable effort advocating for the
industry as a whole: establishing ASTM construction guidelines for skateparks, writing editorial content for
industry publications and lecturing at parks and recreation conferences.
In the private sector, Spohn Ranch became a household name by designing/building courses for premiere
action sports competitions, film/television and corporate events. In the municipal world, Spohn Ranch has
consistently been a pioneering firm, most recently taking a lead role in transforming skateparks into vibrant
community spaces with architectural finesse and sculptural elements that double as visual focal points.
FIRM OVERVIEW
BUSINESS HISTORY
The roots of Spohn Ranch date back to the days of backyard ramp building in the late 1980’s, but the company was
officially founded in 1992 and later incorporated in 1998.
Corporate Officers
Aaron Spohn, Founder & President
Damon Spohn, VP of Design
Mark Bradford, VP of Construction
Kirsten Dermer, CEO/CFO
FINANCIAL STABILITY
2015 marks twenty-three years of uninterrupted service, focused solely on skatepark design and construction. That
means no bankruptcies, liquidated damages, changes of ownership or buy-outs from corporate companies. We
pride ourselves on being a responsible family-owned business.
INSURANCE
Certificates are available upon request.
Errors and Omissions/ Professional Liability insurance in the amount of $2,000,000 per occurrence, $2,000,000 aggregate
Workers Compensation and Employers Liability insurance in the amount of $1,000,000
Auto Coverage for Owned, Non-Owned and Hired vehicles in the amount of $1,000,000 per occurrence, $2,000,000 aggregate
Comprehensive General Liability or Commercial General Liability insurance covering all operations or job specific in the
amount of $1,000,000 per occurrence, $2,000,000 aggregate
Excess Liability/ Umbrella Insurance in the amount of $9,000,000
LITIGATION HISTORY
Spohn Ranch has no litigation history associated with skatepark project performance nor any past or pending
litigation against an Owner with whom we’ve contracted.
SPOHN RANCH AT A GLANCE
PROJECT
APPROACH
Every Spohn Ranch project flows through our time-tested process – continuously refined, adjusted and improved over the
course of twenty-three years and 700+ projects.
Task 1.1 Project Kick-Off Meeting – Key staff from the City and Spohn Ranch’s design team will be introduced
to one another via an in-person meeting. We will review the project goals and refine the scope of work,
budget and schedule. We will compile and distribute a contact sheet with contact information for all persons
from the City and Spohn Ranch’s design team who will be involved with the project. We’ll also launch an
online portal for the project accessible by project team members and City staff. The online site will provide a
server for all project files, as well as have a project schedule that tracks progress and identifies key milestones -
ensuring everyone is on the same page and has access to the same information.
Task 1.2 Information Gathering – During the kick-off meeting, Spohn Ranch and City staff will take stock of
existing studies, design concepts and any other information pertinent to the project and project site. We will
compile a list of site studies yet to be produced and either sub-contract these services locally or work with the
City to acquire them. The site information typically required to begin design work is described below:
Site survey in AutoCAD format indicating spot elevations, topography, benchmark and/or control point
locations, drain inlets and their invert elevations, location of existing structures/features such as trees,
asphalt/concrete pathways, walls, curbs, light poles, sign posts, fire hydrants, manhole covers, fences,
gates, irrigation system components, visible utilities, known buried utilities, known easements, etc.
Geotechnical report (max 10 years old) summarizing sub-surface conditions. Report should discuss
water table depth, soil composition and provide recommendations for site preparation, fill material
and concrete construction.
Any master plan design work or future improvements planned for the site.
Any local or state design requirements such as a stormwater management code, etc.
Photographs showing visual themes or aesthetic details from the community or the site and its existing
structures that should be carried over into the skatepark design.
We hold a strong belief that a thorough analysis of the site conditions at the beginning of the project is vital to
a successful end result. Developing an in-depth understanding of our canvas ensures responsible design work
and helps us avoid surprises down the road that cost both time and money.
PHASE-1 SCHEMATIC DESIGN
Task 1.3 Launch Designated Facebook Group – We will create a Facebook group specific to receiving
skatepark design input from local skateboarders and stakeholders. The group will be managed by Spohn Ranch
and all content will be approved by the City prior to posting. The Facebook group will become a “one-stop
shop” for any and all information related to the project – including meeting dates and construction updates.
During our information gathering process, our first posts in the Facebook Group will be a collection of images
from past projects titled “Inspiration From Our Parks” as well as images we’ve collected of skateboarding in
the urban environment titled “Inspiration From the Streets”. Users will be encouraged to “like” and comment
on images of obstacles they’d like to see incorporated into their skatepark. We also encourage them to post
photos/ videos of skateparks or street spots they’ve found themselves.
WHY FACEBOOK MATTERS
In order to communicate with the end-users of your skatepark project, you must connect with them on their
level – utilizing tools they are already using on a consistent basis. With the most traffic of any website in the
world and over one billion active users, Facebook opens the door for direct and continuous interaction with
your community’s skateboarders and other stakeholders. In the past, we experimented with creating design
forums connected to our website, but we found that if people forget the website address or misplace their
username and password they tend to lose interest. Connecting with them on a site they already visit is key.
Since 2009, we’ve been supplementing community forums and design charrettes with robust communication
via Facebook groups created specifically for our projects. By going beyond traditional formats, we ensure true
community buy-in and make sure we are designing the kind of skatepark the community’s users really want.
It’s no secret that community design meetings can often be dominated by the loudest voice. If the older, more
vocal skateboarders dominate the discussion, the vision for the park can be artificially skewed in a direction
that does not truly represent the entire spectrum of users. Younger park users (10-15 years old) often struggle
SOCIAL MEDIA OUTREACH
to express themselves in a formal meeting setting, where a fear of public speaking can hinder their desire to
share input. When they are sitting behind a computer, however, these younger community members feel a lot
more comfortable and are more inclined to express themselves.
And no matter your age, finding time to attend all these meetings can be a real challenge. If someone has a
school or work obligation that prevents them from attending a community meeting, the Facebook group
allows them to get instantly caught up on the project’s progress and ensures that their voice is heard.
HOW WE USE FACEBOOK
POST MEETING REMINDERS
ASK QUESTIONS AND POLL
USERS
DISCUSS PHOTO/VIDEO
INSPIRATION FROM OTHER
SKATEPARKS OR STREET SPOTS
DISCUSS CONCEPTUAL DESIGNS
POST FLYERS FOR GRAND
OPENING, CONTESTS AND
SPECIAL EVENTS THROUGHOUT
THE LIFE OF THE PARK
Task 1.4 Site Walkthrough – Spohn Ranch will conduct a site walkthrough with key staff from the City and if
desired, key members of the local skateboarding community. We will lead a discussion about our vision for
the space - identifying both constraints and opportunities.
We will also photograph and videotape the site using a DJI Phantom Quadcopter. The Quadcopter captures
site overviews that a conventional camera can’t. These amazing angles prove extremely valuable during the
site analysis process, as well as during the planning of construction logistics.
Task 1.5 Design Workshop #1 – Spohn Ranch will host a public meeting to give a “Skateparks 101”
presentation and gather preliminary input from the community. After years of educational lectures at parks
and recreation conferences, Spohn Ranch’s staff have become experts in public speaking and know how to
connect with an audience – whether it’s a young skateboarder or an elderly community member with NIMBY
concerns. A typical workshop lasts 2-3 hours and breaks down as follows:
6:00 – 6:15 PROJECT INTRODUCTION
6:15 – 6:30 SPOHN RANCH COMPANY BACKGROUND
6:30 – 6:45 SKATEPARK EVOLUTION AND TYPOLOGY
6:45 – 7:00 ANALYSIS OF REGIONAL SKATEPARKS – PROS/CONS
7:00 – 7:15 PROJECT ANALYSIS
Site Analysis
Budget Analysis
7:15 – 8:00 USER INPUT
User Input Surveys
Feature/terrain ranking
Sketching and 3D model exploration – break out into small groups
8:00 – 8:30 OPEN DISCUSSION AND MEETING WRAP-UP
DESIGN WORKSHOP
When a location and time for the community design workshop is set, we’ll create an invitation flyer and
coordinate with the City to post the flyer around the community, as well as through any online mediums. This
will ensure a strong community turnout.
We’ll also open the invitation to the community at large – including potential donors. Meetings like this often
breathe new energy into a project, getting donors excited in the process. And we’re happy to spend extra time
discussing intelligent ways to incorporate local material/service donations into the project.
Task 1.6 Workshop #1 Report – Spohn Ranch will review the findings from the project kick-off meeting, site
walkthrough and first public workshop with the rest of the design team. The team will discuss opportunities
and constraints, identify key next steps and summarize the discussion in a report to be submitted to the City.
Data from the surveys will be aggregated, graphed and directly injected into our design development. Below is
a summary of a few survey questions from a previous project.
As the site information and user input begin to roll in, we waste no time in looping our lead
foreman, Mark Bradford, into design discussions. By tapping into Mark’s years of in-the-field
expertise early on in the process, we foster a holistic approach and set the stage for a
unified and seamless transition from design to construction.
Our philosophy is to balance the practical needs of the
client, the preferences of skaters and strengths of the
site to create a unique sense of place. While many
designers see each project as another opportunity to
advance their own design experiments or express their
personal fantasies, we see ourselves as servants to the
client and its skaters.
Skateboarders are constantly progressing and we strive
to create parks that serve as the platform for continued
creativity and innovation. While progressive terrain is a
core principal in our design philosophy, the overarching
focus is fun. “How fun is it?” is hands down the most
important question you can ask to assess the quality of
a skatepark. At the heart of every skateboarder’s
reason for stepping on a board each day is the desire to
have fun. And since many skateboarders first step each day is towards their local skatepark, we have a very
important duty as a skatepark design/build firm to make each park as fun for its local users as possible.
While fun skateboarding can mean something different to every skateboarder, there are qualities of a fun
experience that are consistent across the board and thus should be reflected in a good skatepark.
Just as the balance of the terrain styles allows riders to evolve their skills, the difficulty level of the features
themselves is also very important in creating a fun way to progress. A good skatepark isn’t designed solely for the
1% of skateboarders who are aiming to turn pro. At the same time, however, the park shouldn’t cater to someone
who has never stepped on a skateboard. There is a perfect middle ground that Spohn Ranch has been aiming to
perfect since our first parks in the early ‘90s.
Every skateboarder at some point in their lives has ridden a park where all of the features are huge and very
challenging to skate. It’s not a fun experience and is incredibly discouraging. A good skatepark provides features of
varying difficulty level to accommodate the full spectrum of experiences – from the kinds of days where you want a
mellow session to the days where you wake up feeling hungry and aren’t worried about taking a big slam or two.
DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
At Spohn Ranch, we design with a keen sense of green planning/building methods and environmental and social
responsibility. The bigger picture of sustaining planet earth is always top priority.
Do it right the first time, designing with sustainability in mind
Thorough soils testing & analysis
Create a compacted base
Thorough use of steel edge protection
Meticulous use of plastic for proper concrete curing
Work with the site
Preserve as much natural topography as possible, let the site dictate the design
Balance cut and fill
Preserve existing trees when possible
Capitalize on natural elevation changes
Incorporate local and recycled materials
Specify materials with environmentally responsible production – steel, lumber, dowels, etc.
Source material suppliers within close radius of job site
Get creative with fill material
Repurpose existing site features by weaving them into the skateable terrain
Specify fly-ash into the concrete mix design
Integrate native planting & vegetation
o Low maintenance
o Less synthetic pesticides & fertilizers
o Complement the local ecosystem and promote regional identity
Plan for water efficiency
Design with smart stormwater management - if possible, manage water within site boundary
Incorporate landscaped areas, bioswales and bio-filtration islands into the terrain
Help remove pollutants from surface runoff water
Sediment control fencing during construction
Create integrated public spaces
Inviting spaces encourage environmental stewardship
Complement the surrounding area, instead of fighting against it
Less concrete hardscape, more permeable surface area and color pigments to reduce heat island effect
ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY
Task 1.7 Schematic Design – Incorporating feedback from the first workshop (and Facebook page), Spohn
Ranch will prepare two alternate schematic designs. The schematic designs will address sections of terrain,
circulation, access and identify rough elevations, but not detail the dimensions of every single obstacle.
Task 2.1 Design Workshop #2 – Spohn
Ranch will return to Elk River to present
the alternate schematic designs and solicit
feedback. The presentation will begin
with a video fly-through that navigates
through the designs and highlights the
various features. Spohn Ranch will narrate
the video explaining the terrain and what
factors influenced the designs.
The designs will also be showcased on 24”
x 36” poster boards with high-end 3D
renderings and labeled/dimensioned
drawings. Prior to the public workshop,
the Spohn Ranch design team will attend a
closed meeting with City staff to discuss the designs and present a detailed construction cost estimate.
The second workshop will follow a more organic, free-flowing format, with Spohn Ranch leading a discussion
about the schematic designs and seeking input from the skateboarding community. 2D line drawings of the
designs will be available for participants to sketch out suggested revisions.
The alternate schematic designs will also be posted to the Facebook group following the meeting for review by
stakeholders unable to attend the workshop.
Task 2.2 Workshop #2 Report – Spohn Ranch will review feedback from the second workshop with the rest of
the design team. The team will discuss opportunities for incorporating the community’s input and identify the
next steps for finalizing design development while staying on budget and on schedule. The discussion will be
summarized in a report to be submitted to the City.
PHASE-2 DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
Task 2.3 Finalize Design – Spohn Ranch will incorporate feedback from the second design workshop and
Facebook group in order to finalize design development.
3D photo-real renderings produced in 3D Studio Max (JPEG)
Labeled and dimensioned 2D site plan (PDF)
Detailed construction cost estimate highlighting opportunities for in-kind material/service donations
from community (Excel)
2D base (AutoCAD)
Below are examples of our design renderings produced in 3D Studio Max. Renderings of this quality are
valuable for public events, fundraising campaigns and grant applications.
Task 3.1 Review Design – Spohn Ranch and City staff will review the design development drawings to insure all design
criteria have been met and confirm any revisions prior to beginning the construction documents.
Task 3.2 80% Construction Documents – Coordinating with the City and our team of A/E sub-consultants, Spohn Ranch
will prepare a professional construction document package detailing the complete build out of the skatepark – including
all engineering and stormwater management solutions.
At the 80% level the construction document package will contain enough detail to convey design intent for all
improvements, but some information may be omitted to allow further design refinement. Spohn Ranch will provide
digital PDF files of the following sheets (typical, though additional plans/details may be added as necessary to further
clarify design intent):
Title Sheet
Erosion & Sediment Control Plan
Demolition Plan
3D Perspective
Materials Plan
Color Plan
Layout Plan
Steel Plan
Grading & Drainage Plan
Landscaping Plan
Jointing Plan
Sections
Construction Details
Technical Specifications – written specifications in CSI MasterFormat
Minimal Impact Design Standards (MIDS) Report
Task 3.3 80% Construction Documents Review – City staff will review the 80% Construction Documents submittal
and prepare redline comments. Spohn Ranch and City staff will discuss via teleconference the redline comments
and identify actions needed to address the comments.
PHASE-3 CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
Task 3.4 95% Construction Documents – Coordinating with the City and our team of A/E sub-consultants, Spohn
Ranch will incorporate feedback from the 80% review meeting and prepare the 95% construction document
package. If necessary, 95% submittal will include an updated cost estimate.
Task 3.5 95% Construction Documents Review – City staff will review the 95% Construction Documents submittal
and prepare redline comments. Spohn Ranch and City staff will discuss via teleconference the redline comments
and identify actions needed to address the comments.
Task 3.6 100% Construction Documents – Coordinating with the City and our team of A/E sub-consultants, Spohn
Ranch will incorporate feedback from the 95% review meeting and finalize the 100% construction document
package. 100% submittal will include required stamps and signatures. The final construction document package is
typically delivered to the client in the following formats:
Compact disc with digital PDF files
2D AutoCAD base file
CI
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COMMUNITY
LOCAL SKATEBOARDERS,
BMX BIKE RIDERS, NEIGHBORS, ETC.
SPOHN RANCH
SKATEPARK DESIGN CONSULTANT
AARON SPOHN
PRINCIPAL-IN-CHARGE
VINCENT ONEL
PROJECT MANAGER
CHARLIE WILKINS
LEAD DESIGNER & DRAFTSMAN
MATT MILLER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
KIRSTEN DERMER
ADMINISTRATIVE
TEAM OVERVIEW
& ORGANIZATION
Background:
Aaron is the embodiment of the entrepreneurial spirit. When he used a carpentry background to start Spohn
Ranch in the early ‘90’s, he had no back-up plan – he put everything he had behind his passion for action
sports. That passion culminated in a backyard half-pipe that not only gave birth to a community, but eventually
an award-winning skatepark design/build firm.
After Aaron helped launch skateparks into the mainstream when he partnered with ESPN to develop the
X-Games, Spohn Ranch’s backyard roots spread globally in the form of hundreds of cutting-edge creations.
From permanent skateable landscapes to innovative installations for high-profile events, Aaron and Spohn
Ranch have played an invaluable role in the exponential growth and development of action sports. Hailed by
insiders as a pioneer of the modern municipal skatepark, Aaron has also spent considerable effort promoting
the industry as a whole and sharing his extensive knowledge.
Awards & Recognition:
Featured expert on Spike TV’s “Playbook 360” dedicated to skatepark design/construction (2014)
Consultant for Atlanta Olympics tribute to action sports (1996)
Educational speaker at Global Skateboarding Summit in Istanbul, Turkey (2015)
Educational speaker at ASLA, NRPA & various State Park/Rec Conferences (2000-present)
Founding member of ASTM sub-committee that established skatepark safety guidelines (2002-2006)
Award of Excellence for Recreation/Community Services – California Park & Recreation Society (2009)
Award for Excellence in Design – New Jersey Recreation & Parks Association (2013)
Highlighted Project List:
NBC Dew Tour – Nationwide ESPN X-Games – Nationwide
Ambassador Skate Plaza – Los Angeles, California Summit Bechtel Reserve – Glen Jean, West Virginia
Ernest McBride Skatepark – Long Beach, California McClatchy Park Skatepark – Sacramento, California
Daybreak Sculpture Garden – Salt Lake City, Utah Possum Creek Skatepark – Gainesville, Florida
FOUNDER & PRESIDENT
AARON SPOHN
PROJECT ROLE: Principal-In-Charge
EXPERIENCE: 40+ years skateboarding, 25+ years in skatepark
industry
SKILLS/EXPERTISE: Skatepark construction, conceptual design,
master-planning, community outreach, public speaking, value-
engineering, cost estimating, municipal bidding, project
management, logistics, operations & programming
Background:
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Charlie became a professional skateboarder in 1996 and helped pioneer the
Boston skateboarding scene. While he gained fame with magazine photo spreads and video parts, his passion
for Mass skateboarding transcended way beyond flip tricks and grinds – he spent considerable effort
organizing events, participating in the design and construction of municipal skatepark projects and he was a
regular instructor at the Rye Airfield indoor skateboarding camp.
After making the transition to the West Coast in 2011, Charlie connected with Spohn Ranch through our event
work for the Mountain Dew Tour. He had honed his AutoCAD skills as Alli Sports & NBC’s lead designer since
the Dew Tour’s inception in 2005 – a role in which he designed dozens of world-class event courses for our
industry’s premiere athletes. Charlie’s CAD expertise and ability to work with tight spaces and timelines made
him a perfect fit for Spohn Ranch and he’s since enjoyed a seamless transition into our design department.
In addition to a full-time position as one of Spohn Ranch’s lead designers (Damon Spohn, Aaron’s brother is the
other), Charlie continues a 15+ year career as a highly-respected professional skateboarder. Charlie also
maintains a well-rounded perspective as head judge for World Cup Skateboarding – one of our industry’s
sanctioning bodies for professional competitions.
Project Role:
For the Orono Park project, Charlie will be Spohn Ranch’s lead designer and draftsman. He’ll work closely with
Aaron and Vince during design development as the footprint, elevations and terrain sections begin taking
shape. He’ll then collaborate with Matt Miller and our A/E team during the construction documents phase.
While the initial planning work may consist of simply pencil and paper, Charlie will eventually tap into years of
CAD experience to create a detailed 3D model. He is known around our office as the man who can tackle the
most complex modeling challenge – such as waterfalls, blend walls and organic sculptures.
Highlighted Project List: (while with Spohn Ranch)
Radtke Park Skatepark – West Allis, Wisconsin OB Nelson Park Skatepark – Fairfield, Iowa
North Adams Skatepark – North Adams, Mass Long Beach Skatepark – Long Beach, New York
Walker Mill Skatepark – District Heights, Maryland Summit Bechtel Reserve – Glen Jean, West Virginia
SKATEPARK DESIGN
PROJECT ROLE: Skatepark Designer & Draftsman
EXPERIENCE: 15+ years as a professional skateboarder,
10+ years in skatepark design and construction
SPONSORS: Lifeblood Skateboards, DVS Shoes, Matix Clothing,
Ace Trucks and Bones Wheels.
CHARLIE WILKINS
Background:
Vince grew up in Iowa and discovered skateboarding at the age of 10. After years of being chased by police on
the campus where his father worked as a professor, Vince joined forces with fellow Iowa City skateboarders to
advocate for a community skatepark. Advocacy efforts paid off and the park was successfully constructed in
2002. The park quickly became Vince’s home away from home, a formative space where he organized
competitions, filmed videos and hosted community events.
While attending the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, a professor connected Vince with the
owners of Spohn Ranch and it instantly clicked that he could combine his love for skateboarding with a
growing interest in architecture and construction.
In the summer of 2009 after receiving his bachelor’s degree from USC, Vince officially joined the Spohn Ranch
family. He has since played a valuable role in Spohn Ranch’s design department, leading community design
workshops and striving to amplify the artistry of skateboarding landscapes. He also acts as one of Spohn
Ranch’s lead project managers, where he’s enjoyed developing a well-rounded breadth of knowledge –
including landscape architecture, engineering, construction and a recent LEED accreditation.
Project Role:
For the Orono Park project, Vince will act as project manager – coordinating meetings, collecting and
organizing information and shepherding the project through its various pre-construction stages. This safety
net ensures that the project moves swiftly and never comes to a standstill. A passionate skateboarder for over
18 years and trained AutoCAD operator, Vince will also collaborate closely with Aaron and Charlie during the
conceptual design process.
Highlighted Project List:
Maple Grove Skatepark – Maple Grove, Minnesota Bond Park Skatepark – Janesville, Wisconsin
Augsburg Park Skatepark – Richfield, Minnesota Goodview Park Skatepark – Wyoming, Minnesota
OB Nelson Park Skatepark – Fairfield, Iowa Campbell County Skatepark – Gillette, Wyoming
Oskaloosa Skatepark – Oskaloosa, Iowa Fireman’s Skatepark – Houma, Louisiana
SKATEPARK DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT
PROJECT ROLE: Project Manager
EXPERIENCE: 15+ years skateboarding, 7 years in skatepark industry
SKILLS/EXPERTISE: LEED Green Associate, landscape architecture,
skatepark design (AutoCAD & SketchUp), master-planning,
community engagement, public speaking, cost estimating, value-
engineering, municipal bidding, project management
VINCENT ONEL
Work Experience:
Select Structural Engineering – Structural Engineer, PM & Board of Directors (2008 – Present)
Matt is responsible for structural design and analysis including new building design, analysis of existing
structures and forensic structural investigations.
He plans and conducts structural engineering work requiring judgment in the independent evaluation,
selection and substantial adaptation of standard techniques, procedures, and project criteria. He designs and
analyzes work which involves complex features and design requirements. He provides plan review, calculation
review and code check requirements. He also performs engineering calcuations and creates construction
drawings, details and reports.
As a leader within the firm, Matt also supervises and coordinates the work of junior engineers, assistant
engineers and technicians.
Knapp-Wardern Architecture & Engineering – Structural Engineer & PM
Planned and designed construction documents from conception to completion including AutoCAD drafting.
Structural analysis and calculations for steel, concrete, timber and aluminum structures - including foundation
design. Resolved design and constructability problems, presented new ideas and recommended engineering
related solutions. Created and checked shop drawings for adherence to specifications, plans.
Project Role:
For the Orono Park project, Matt will collaborate with our design team and inject his engineering expertise to
technical design aspects including site preparation, slab design, freeze/thaw measures and stormwater
management. As a Minnesota-licensed engineer, he will also sign and stamp the final construction documents.
Highlighted Project List:
Maple Grove Skatepark – Maple Grove, Minnesota Coffman Park Skatepark – Dublin, Ohio
Augsburg Park Skatepark – Richfield, Minnesota Goodview Park Skatepark – Wyoming, Minnesota
Skate Plaza de Ponce – Ponce, Puerto Rico Garden City Skatepark – Garden City, Michigan
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
PROJECT ROLE: Structural Engineer
LICENSES: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska
EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Structures
Emphasis – University of Iowa (1999)
MATT MILLER
Background:
Kirsten is Southern California born and raised. While attending Venice High in the early ‘90s she and her
brother Mark befriended their new neighbor Aaron Spohn, joining him in his relentless pursuit of skating and
building ramps at his house.
It wasn’t long before that house transformed into a community dubbed “Spohn Ranch”. And with innate
ambition and drive, it wasn’t long before Kirsten transformed from one of Aaron’s first employees into the
CEO/CFO that would help Spohn Ranch evolve from a small family business into an award-winning, nation-
wide design/build firm. The counterweight to Aaron’s free-spirit, Kirsten steered the ship through good times
and bad, always keeping the company on course for success.
Intimately involved in the action sports industry for 20+ years, the breadth of Kirsten’s experience is vast. In
addition to earning a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from UCLA, she has developed expertise in
every facet of skatepark design, construction and operations – with a focus on executing all financial,
contractual and insurance-related matters.
Kirsten has also twice served as President of the Los Angeles Chapter of the Entrepreneurs Organization, an
internationally renowned association of successful business owners. Through this affiliation, she is able to
interact with many of the world’s top minds on a regular basis, leveraging this knowledge of business best
practices to every project Spohn Ranch undertakes.
Kirsten is truly the glue that holds the company together. While under her leadership, Spohn Ranch has
earned a number of awards and industry recognition, including being named to Inc. Magazine’s list of 5,000
fastest-growing private companies 5 years in a row – climbing the ranks every year.
Project Role:
For the Orono Park project, Kirsten will oversee all financial, legal and administrative matters, ensuring our
design team is freed up to do what they do best. This includes review and execution of contracts, certified
payroll, invoicing, licenses and sub-consultant documentation.
CO-OWNER & CEO/CFO
PROJECT ROLE: Financial & administrative
EXPERIENCE: 20+ years in skatepark industry, 2-time President of
Los Angeles Chapter of Entrepreneurs Organization
SKILLS/EXPERTISE: Insurance and risk management, finance,
skatepark programming and operations, cost estimating, municipal
bidding, project management, logistics, compliance
KIRSTEN DERMER
Asked, and they received. During the planning meetings and design workshops Bakersfield's skaters expressed disappointment with the bowl at the City's
other skatepark at Beach Park. Too deep, too tight and too gnarly was a recipe for discouragement and infrequent use. They asked if Planz Park could have a
mellow bowl that even a beginner rider could have fun with. After seeing the smiles and high-fives at the grand opening, we got the feeling that we nailed it.
In addition to the bowl, the final design features a wide array of modern street-inspired features like steps, handrails and benches and a one-of-a-kind roller-
to-bank obstacle that pays tribute to Bakersfield’s iconic yellow and blue entrance arch.
SPOHN RANCH
PROJECT PORTFOLIO
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Long Beach’s first true skate plaza - more than just another place to ride, we wanted to create an engaging public space that would resemble an urban
streetscape and give local skaters a sense of place and community. Despite a tight footprint nestled in between two streets, an apartment complex and a
parking lot, we packed the park with recreations of famous Long Beach street spots, integrated landscaping and several cobblestone gaps.
By far the most compelling aspect of the design though, is the skateable “LBC” letters that rise up out of the park. With a sculptural quality not found in any
other skatepark, these letters singlehandedly elevate this skatepark to iconic proportions. Empowering the local skaters with the knowledge and pride that
their community is special, these letters have further united Long Beach’s skaters and cemented the City’s place in skateboarding history.
SPOHN RANCH
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In one sentence – the largest and most comprehensive project to ever face the action sports landscape. The courses at the 10,000-acre Summit Bechtel
Reserve in West Virginia are a showcase feature of the new $1 billion permanent home to the Boy Scouts of America’s quadrennial “Jamboree”, an event
drawing 50,000+ visitors per day.
We were chosen as the exclusive designer/builder for the 21+ concrete skateparks, dirt BMX tracks and specialty training zones encompassing an area over
twice the size of any action sports facility in the country. Extending far beyond conventional design/build, we drew upon our 12 years of skatepark
management experience to thoroughly plan all aspects of this world-class facility. To meet the goals and standards of the BSA we considered capacity, user
density, queuing times, pedestrian flow patterns, skill levels and risk management before starting design.
SPOHN RANCH
PROJECT PORTFOLIO
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The result of rigorous analysis and collaborative community engagement, Rialto’s Fergusson Park is home to one of the Inland Empire’s premiere
skateboarding landscapes. Inspired by the passion of a local family who had spent years advocating for a skatepark, we embarked on a design process
aimed at creating a state-of-the-art facility that would serve both transition and street skaters in a harmonious way.
With the local inspiration in hand, we returned to the drawing board and developed a unique concept that would make efficient use of an existing hockey
rink slab, while maintaining a sculptural and aesthetic quality. The final design features aspects of both modern urban architecture and traditional
backyard pool skating. It also features an innovative shade structure design that invites families and spectators.
SPOHN RANCH
PROJECT PORTFOLIO
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The skatepark at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston is the Fairfax County Park Authority’s premiere skateboarding destination. This spacious park features well-
rounded terrain and an array of unique obstacles that will help the full spectrum of skateboarders evolve their skills.
An artfully designed, clover-shaped bowl anchors the northern end of the park, while streetscape-inspired features tinted with a vibrant red stain flow
through the rest of the space. At the grand opening in October, local skateboarder Josh Harris commented, “There’s so much here, it’s like something you’d
see in a video game. It was designed really well, and very creatively.” Sponsored local skateboarder Diego Patrick also added, “I think this is the best
skatepark in Northern VA by far. It’s the concrete plaza skaters all over have been waiting for.”
SPOHN RANCH
PROJECT PORTFOLIO
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One component of a revitalization at Monitor Avenue in Watts, this project transformed what once was an empty lot filled with weeds and trash into a
state-of-the-art community gathering space. The skatepark occupies 6,000 square feet and offers well-balanced terrain for both street and transition-style
skateboarders. Colored concrete and an intricate saw cut pattern in the flatwork add a modern aesthetic touch.
Throughout the build we collaborated with WorkSource California to provide in-the-field training for Watts youth who are carving a path of positivity and
productivity as an alternative to the gangs, crime and drugs that dominate their community.
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Working with our 10+ year client, Los Angeles Recreation and Parks, the new facility at Hansen Dam Park is a state-of-the-art space unlike any other in the
area. The well rounded space blends the multiple genres of skate terrain in a cutting-edge fashion by anchoring the park’s entrance with a unique bowl and
snaking street-inspired features around a landscaped area in the center of the park.
The 8,800 square foot concrete skatepark features integral colored concrete, granite-capped ledges and brick stamped banks. With a 2,500 square foot flow
bowl, the park also speaks to a somewhat neglected LA action sports subculture – transition skaters.
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For the skaters and community members who had spent years advocating for a state-of-the art public facility in Gainesville, the Possum Creek Skatepark is
nothing short of a dream come true. One of Florida’s premiere skateboarding landscapes, the park is a triangular expanse of unique terrain. The park’s focus
on aesthetic symmetry and a diversity of skateable features makes it a one-of-a-kind destination skatepark.
This captivating skatepark features modern plaza elements, a multi-level bowl and inspiring obstacles which allow skaters to transition through the park’s
integrated landscaping. These landscaped areas give the skater’s the feeling of a real urban environment, while providing opportunities for eco-friendly
stormwater management. The park has also been the site of several regional competitions, as well as a pit stop for touring professional teams.
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In July of 2015, the Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation proudly cut the ribbon at Walker Mill Regional Park’s new crown jewel – a
12,000 square foot concrete skatepark. While this celebration marked the official opening, skateboarders from throughout Maryland & Virginia had already
been flocking to District Heights for months for a firsthand taste of the fast lines and innovative terrain.
The County utilized a streamlined design/build approach with Spohn Ranch acting as both prime architect and general contractor. After a design process
that blended the site’s dramatic topography with flowing curves and modern street elements, we executed the full spectrum of construction – from
bioretention and ADA pathways to shotcrete and steel fabrication. Colored concrete, shade sails and artistic spectator seating add to the modern aesthetic.
This space is a part of a larger re-development project and was originally slated to be a venue for social gatherings such as concerts and
farmer’s markets. When the forward-thinking prime architect wanted to bring wheeled sports into the mix, we were invited to join the design
team and lend our expertise. The goal then became a vibrant multi-use plaza that would primarily cater to skateboards and bikes, while
remaining a welcoming space for the entire community. The thought was that the non-skating population would enjoy watching the action, as
well as appreciate the sculptural nature of the skateable elements. And for skaters, a skatepark that doesn’t look like a skatepark and feels
more like a naturally-occurring environment that just so happens to be perfect for skateboarding is truly a dream come true.
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Highly respected within the New Jersey scene and well-versed in the State’s myriad of rules and regulations, Spohn Ranch was the clear choice for Ocean
City’s modern concrete destination. During design workshops we collaborated closely with local skateboarders to create a skatepark design that reflected the
unique makeup of the community. OC’s surf culture was a dominant theme, making a surf-inspired snake run and bowl top priorities. Ensuring the skatepark
design didn’t cater to just one style of skateboarding though, we skillfully integrated street elements like stairs, manual pads and ledges.
Located just blocks from the beach, the skatepark is poised to host competitions and demonstrations – serving as entertainment for the thousands of
summertime visitors, as well as a platform for regional talent to build a name for themselves.
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Ponderosa Park was already home to a concrete skatepark built in 1997, but flawed design and subpar construction limited the potential of the space and by
2013, the local skate community was ready for a change. As initial sketches were coming together, our site analysis revealed that 1’ below the site’s topsoil
was a layer of nearly impenetrable bedrock/granite. This limited the ability to build a bowl, so rather than literally “blowing” the budget to dynamite the
rock, we reconvened with local skaters and brainstormed a solution for a modern above-grade space with a healthy balance between street and transition.
The final product features a main elevated area with stairs, rails and ledges and is flanked by strategically-located transition hips and walls. The top of the
park is anchored by a skateable rock sculpture which ultimately flows into the “skate path” section. The path is lined with beginner-friendly skate elements
that contour to Ponderosa Park’s unique landscape and with luxurious spacing and length, provide a feeling of true freedom.
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Selected as the skatepark design/build contractor in the winter of 2010, Spohn Ranch joined an integrated team of engineers and landscape architects who
were drafting a unique vision for a redevelopment project in the heart of Oskaloosa’s downtown district. As the centerpiece of Oskaloosa’s new Urban Park,
we envisioned the skatepark as a vibrant and colorful space that could be proudly displayed as a community showpiece.
While the majority of Iowa’s skateparks feature metal ramps on old tennis courts or large expanses of dull concrete, Oskaloosa’s new action sports space
stands alone. With an innovative sculptural quality and a diversity of aesthetic enhancements, the resulting design is arguably the most progressive
skatepark in the State of Iowa. Often resembling more of an urban plaza than a traditional skatepark, the park features a dynamic colored concrete pattern,
integrated granite collages and a host of cantilevered obstacles that double as architectural focal points.
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Thanks to the generous donation of a private donor, OB Nelson Park in Fairfield is now home to a 4,000 square foot modern skateable landscape. The
skatepark design was created in collaboration with the local skateboarders of Fairfield who requested a facility that was balanced with both street and
transition-style terrain. The final concept features a multi-level bowl with a waterfall, tombstone extension and multiple hips, as well as a street section with
ledges, rails and a curved manual pad.
The skatepark was slightly built up to accomplish positive drainage and an environmentally responsible cut/fill balance. Brick red colored concrete for the
bowl walls and flatwork stripes adds a nice aesthetic touch.
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After 12 years of tireless fundraising and advocacy by local parents Roger and Fern Streich, the City of Janesville selected Spohn Ranch and Madison-based
Ayres Associates to finally bring their skatepark project to fruition. Sub-grade composed of bedrock and local preference for plaza-style terrain drove an
above-grade design, but we refused to settle for a strictly linear layout. A colored concrete swirl winds through the skatepark, at one point capitalizing on a
natural elevation change at the site.
In addition to architectural and aesthetic finesse, the skatepark focuses on a healthy balance of terrain for varying skill levels and riding styles. And as an
added bonus, construction was completed on-budget and on-schedule.
On the south end of Gardena, Arthur Lee Johnson Memorial Park is home to 7,000 square feet of skateable terrain. The space flows naturally out of an
existing hillside and sits adjacent to two basketball courts. A triangular theme weaves through the skatepark’s interior and can be seen in the charcoal-tinted
flatwork, as well as the park’s dynamic features.
This artistic imprint accents the space with an unmistakable aesthetic quality. The park’s features are sculptural versions of skatepark staples such as gaps,
banks and hubba ledges. Located near several skateboarding company headquarters in the South Bay, the park is a favorite of many of the industry’s top
professionals as a warm-up spot before heading to the streets.
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On the north end of Gardena, Rowley Park skatepark occupies a 7,500 square foot space nestled in-between a children’s play area and a pair of tennis
courts. If no skaters were present, community members could easily mistake the skatepark as a visually-striking public plaza. Inspired by modern urban
architecture, this park gives Gardena’s skateboarders the style of terrain they truly crave. At the same time, the park’s features double as architectural focal
points that will intrigue the community at large.
Seamlessly integrated into the Northeast corner of the park, this facility defines modern skateboarding environments – with vibrant colored concrete
patterns, interior landscaping and an array of sculptural features.
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Before designing Northeast Wyoming’s first modern skateboarding landscape, our work for Campbell County involved a thorough site selection process
where we analyzed locations throughout the community – examining accessibility, environmental impact and design canvas. When the 4J Road site was
selected, we injected input from local skateboarders into the design of a state-of-the-art space.
A winding pathway leads users from the parking lot to the skatepark and is lined with skate-friendly benches and pump humps. The innovations continue
inside the park with colored concrete, skateable boulders, a ¾ open bowl, an Instagram-worthy handicap ramp feature and a custom steel sculpture that
recreates the County’s mountain range logo. Thorough, long-term grading and stormwater management plans address the site’s expansive subgrade.
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Fireman’s Skate & Bike Park is named in honor of a private donor who after a lifetime of serving his community as a firefighter, decided he wanted to
continue serving by anonymously donating his hard-earned funds to the skateboarding and biking youth of Houma. The skatepark features a beginner area,
a tiered street section perfect for competitions and a flowing transition section with hips, a spine and deep end pocket. It also boasts a state-of-the-art
restroom building and a covered spectator seating area.
Parish President, Michel Claudet, shared some thoughts in a letter of recommendation following the completion of the project, “We cut the ribbon at
Fireman’s Skate and Bike Park with a large crowd of eager riders poised and ready to make a run and the crowd has hardly diminished since. To put it simply,
the park is a great success.”
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During the planning stages of the 98 acre Copper Sky Regional Park, a Phoenix-area destination, Spohn Ranch was selected as the designer and
builder of the 8,000 square foot skatepark. The skatepark is signature Arizona – with colored concrete, desert friendly landscaping and ample
lighting for nighttime use during the hot summers.
The terrain is well balanced and features elements for all riding styles and skill levels. It flows between a winding snake run and a modern
streetscape with stairs, rails and architectural benches.
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Lake Elsinore’s claim as “Action Sports Capital of the World” has been officially cemented with the completion of the concrete skatepark at Serenity Park.
Our design/build project maximized the site’s narrow and linear characteristics and features a modified peanut bowl and a flowing street course. The
craftsmanship and well-balanced design has rave reviews flooding into the office.
Technical design involved devising creative solutions for stormwater management, liquefaction risks and adjacent traffic. Acting as general contractor and
prime skatepark builder, we executed every facet of construction – from fencing to drought-conscious landscaping and irrigation. We also added some
aesthetic flair by powder coating the grind rails with Lake Elsinore’s signature blue color and integrating the City’s logo into a central bank extension.
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It’s always exciting when a client recognizes the artistry of skateboarding and gives us the creative freedom to think outside the box. Breaking
the norm of uninspiring back-and-forth skateparks, we created an architectural layout criss-crossed with integral landscaping and colored
concrete sculptures. Thorough stormwater design ensures the park sustains years of skateboarding and BMX abuse.
During the grand opening ceremony, Jim Coutts, Oregon Park District Recreation Director, noted “From the park district’s point of view,
whenever we have a project or open a venue, or do anything, the measure of success is whether it’s used or not. From the looks today and the
weeks previous, I think we hit a home run!”
Leveraging the resounding success of our skateable sculpture garden in South Jordan, Utah, Spohn Ranch was selected as the design-build partner for this
modern plaza that sits on the grounds of the City of Provo’s new $32 million Aquatics Center. Problem soils and an existing bowl-centric park on the other
side of town steered the design to an above-ground plaza with a sculptural skate path. Tinted concrete creates an inviting aesthetic and helps frame the
park against the surrounding mountains.
Architectural details and a spacious layout recreate the true street skating experience and solidify this park’s position as the premiere skate plaza in the
State of Utah. With structural slab design and drainage-friendly landscaping, the also park supports the project’s overall goals of sustainability.
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Our second collaboration with Woodbridge Township is a skateboarding sanctuary located at the Evergreen Youth Center in Colon ia. Design
workshops revealed a desire for plaza-style terrain inspired by the urban streetscapes of New York City. In an effort to emulate that
downtown aesthetic, the park features colored concrete, brick patterns and an architectural sensibility rarely seen in New Jersey skateparks.
Acting as general contractor, Spohn Ranch managed the entire design/build process in a turnkey fashion – conceptualizing the space, creating
engineered blueprints and executing all facets of construction including drainage, earthwork and concrete.
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While still a Tier-1 facility and only 8,000 square feet in size, Maple Grove’s skatepark instantly set a new standard for modern skateparks in the Minneapolis-
St. Paul metro area. The park is proudly displayed at the entrance to the City’s state-of-the-art community center, adjacent to the site of the former wooden
skatepark built in 1999. Lumber from that park was recycled by a Minneapolis-based indoor skateboarding facility – a truly green approach.
Frost-susceptible soils and dramatic topography tested even our seasoned design/build team, but we engineered responsible solutions for drainage and
concrete strength to ensure the park’s longevity through decades of harsh Minnesota winters. An L-shaped site, hugged by a volleyball court and multiple
parking lots also presented a challenge, but we prevailed with a well-flowing, architectural space.
Some of our most challenging work has been in the special event world, designing and building competition
courses for the world’s top professional skateboarders. When global corporations become involved in
skateboarding events they conduct a rigorous selection process assessing all major players in the skatepark
industry. They consistently choose Spohn Ranch for our unique ability to deliver quality concrete skateparks
and courses under any conditions.
Our corporate clients like ESPN, NBC, MTV, Vans, Mountain Dew and Red Bull and the athletes they host
demand perfection when the skatepark is the stage for a live television event. The spacing between every
obstacle has to be precise, the height and angle of every feature has to be perfect and the quality of the
construction has to be flawless. With over 20 years of experience in this segment, we’ve really been able to
hone our design and construction skill sets, injecting that attention to detail into all of our municipal projects.
To really drive this point home, we like to reference a metaphor from the automotive industry.
“Welcome to the home of Goodyear Racing—where everything we learn about making tires that
perform in grueling conditions inspires what we roll into yours.”
DESIGN/BUILD
IN CORPORATE SECTOR
DESIGN/BUILD FOR DEW TOUR – OCEAN CITY, MD
DESIGN/BUILD FOR DEW TOUR – SAN FRANCISCO, CA
DESIGN/BUILD FOR RED BULL MISSISSIPPI GRIND
20+ YEARS OF SPECIAL EVENT DESIGN/BUILD
“Trinity Works and the Boy Scouts of America selected Spohn Ranch for the Summit because we expected that
we would need the full attention of the best team in the industry to design and build the world’s largest
skateboard and BMX facility. After an exhaustive search of the world’s top action sports companies, your
firm was a clear choice due to unique capabilities, experience and personal involvement of the owners.
Throughout the three years of work on the project, Spohn was consistently attentive, dedicated and
professional. Beyond the fact that you designed an incredible facility and completed construction in the most
harsh conditions possible (on the side of mountain, in the middle of winter, battered by two 100-year storms),
Aaron Spohn and his team exceeded our expectations in every regard by always personally answering our
calls, working long hours, and doing whatever it took to get the work done and get it done well.
Your ability to listen is a true asset. The project’s complex operational requirements were not merely met, but
were greatly enhanced by your design team. You demonstrated patience and superior communication skills
with the many stakeholders involved. We could not be more pleased with the quality of the finished courses.
Given the tight timeline that we were under during the course of this project, it was extremely impressive to
be involved with a firm that not only understood the importance and scope of the work that needed to be
performed in this space, but was also able to overcome so many obstacles with innovative and cost-efficient
solutions. Truly, you did the impossible when you completed twenty-one different courses for full use at the
Jamboree this summer. I can't wait to see what you do next and enthusiastically recommend Spohn Ranch for
any Action Sports project.”
- Tom Wagner, Senior Project Manager – Trinity Works, Inc.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
After years of hard work, it’s all smiles for Aaron
Spohn and Kelly Fujio from the City of Gardena at
the Rowley Park Skatepark grand opening
THE SUMMIT BECHTEL RESERVE – Glen Jean, West Virginia
“The City of Bakersfield had the opportunity to work with Spohn Ranch on a design-build skate park at Planz
Park. The entire team: from the designers to the onsite builders, were great to work with from start to finish.
The onsite crews were professional, courteous to other staff members and informative to the public during the
process as well. I was impressed that most of the onsite crew members were also skaters, so they had a
personal interest in making the final product flow from one amenity to the next to create a challenging and
unique skating experience.
During construction, a couple of stray dogs would make their way to the site of the action daily. The crews be-
friended the dogs and gave them food and water. Not wanting to leave them in the park over the weekend,
they took them home. Then, a crewmember did not want to part with the one dog at all and took the
necessary steps to get its shots and license for official adoption. The dog's name is now Carla and accompanies
the crews on construction jobs around the country.
Planz Park Skate Park Opening Day was a big hit with well over 200 young people in attendance. The proof of a
great product is the user's ability to enjoy it for long periods of time, which exceeded expectations. The skate
park can be enjoyed by beginners as well as advanced skaters, which is desirable for a facility where different
ability levels can learn from each other.
Great company, great results and I would recommend Spohn Ranch to other communities interested in a
quality skate park, using the design build process.”
- Dianne Hoover, Recreation and Parks Director
“It has been tough times for recreation departments across America, searching for innovative ways to continue
delivering recreational needs for our communities. While Lexington has a well-used skate park, the community
needed more opportunities to hone skating skills. The site was repurposed from a deteriorated asphalt volleyball
court, to a new concrete pad with concrete features. To make our innovative approach successful, we had to meet
a tight schedule expected by our corporate partner, so children would be able to enjoy the park this summer.
Throughout the project you and Spohn Ranch were very helpful in design assistance, installation, and delivered as
promised. The new skate spot at Kirklevington Park is modest in terms of dollars, but we received the attention I
would expect from a half-million dollar project. At our ribbon cutting event, many skaters complemented the
park’s design and layout. It is extremely well-used as evidenced by the wax on the pieces.
Sincerely, I appreciate your help and professional enthusiasm.”
- Chris Cooperrider, Deputy Director of Parks
PLANZ PARK SKATEPARK – Bakersfield, California
KIRKLEVINGTON SKATE SPOT – Lexington, Kentucky
“In addition to being a pro skater for over 20 years, I am the creative director for the Dew Tour. The Dew Tour
needed a professional class competition bowl that would showcase the best of modern vert and transition
skateboarding.
The team at Spohn Ranch was able to take my ideas and deliver a finished product that was not only the
world’s first portable bowl, but one of the best pieces of skate-able terrain ever built.”
- Chris Miller, Professional Skateboarder
“Having the opportunity to work with Spohn Ranch was truly a dream relationship. From day one, we talked
about a vision of a grand skate plaza that would be considered one of the premier facilities in North Central
Florida and every which way beyond. A class facility that would cater to young and old, boys and girls and
beginners to the highly skilled. A venue that could hold events and tournaments for all the community to
enjoy, as well as for those from out of town.
With the excitement, dedication and love shown by Spohn Ranch, it’s no wonder the facility turned out to be
a gorgeous skatepark. The mere fact that your team was able to construct such a facility in less than 60 days
was a miracle to me. You knew the City was tight on time due to a $400,000 grant and you kept your promise,
which to me was never in doubt. Night and day your team worked to make the City’s dream skatepark a
reality.
As we’ve all heard time and time again, the proof is in the pudding. All anyone needs to do is drive by the
skatepark anytime during day light hours to see droves of kids and adults skateboarding, in-line skating, BMX
riding, and scooter riding. Moms, Dads, Grandmas and Grandpas clicking snap shots of their heroes. It’s by far
the most amazing skatepark we could have possibly wished for.
This has been reinforced through articles in our local newspaper and TV news stories. Not to mention articles
that have been written and sent to the editor by citizens commenting on the awesomeness of the park.
It’s been a great process and I can’t tell you how lucky I was to work with Spohn Ranch. You guys and ladies
are the top of the pop. You could see our vision and put it on the ground in record-breaking fashion. I hope
that in the upcoming months that visitors from other communities drop in to see our skate park and say, we
need to go back home, get with our City leaders for funding and then contact Spohn Ranch so we can have our
own state-of-the-art skate park for our community.”
- Patrick J. Byrne CPRP, Project Manager
POSSUM CREEK SKATEPARK – Gainesville, Florida
THE PORTABLE CONCRETE BOWL – Ocean City, Maryland
“It’s an excellent street-plaza design, with just enough transitions to make it well-rounded. It has something for
all skill levels, and is exactly the type of project, area, and advocacy that we want to get involved with. It
should be an example for other communities to follow.”
- Tony Hawk, Professional Skateboarder & Founder of Tony Hawk Foundation
“It is truly my pleasure to write you about the City of Gardena’s experience working with Spohn Ranch
Skateparks. We first started working with Aaron Spohn in 2008 after meeting him at a Professional Recreation
Networking session where Mr. Spohn served as an expert panelist on designing and building skateboard parks.
After contacting Mr. Spohn following the meeting, he volunteered to meet with our Skateboard Park
Committee, our Parks and Recreation Commission and our staff. We agreed and the meetings went
exceptionally well. Mr. Spohn answered many questions, gave suggestions and offered to lead us into building
the best skateboard park in our area. He was a man true to his words and with his knowledge, dedication and
patience, we opened two new skateboard parks in the City of Gardena in 2012.
The staff at Spohn Ranch all exceeded our greatest expectations. They worked with us as our staff and City
Council delayed our project, made changes to the design of the project and even added a second skateboard
park project during the process. They were very accommodating when the project was put on hold for over a
year and never put pressure on us while so many changes were being requested and made from our side. We
could not be more happy with the professionalism of the Spohn Ranch staff.
During the design and build process of the project, Spohn Ranch staff member, Jason Baldessari helped us at
every step of the way. He kept us informed as the design of our project moved forward and helped us
understand the skateboard park environment as it relates to this generation’s interest in skating. He was
always available for questions and expert guidance and was invaluable in his assistance in making the City of
Gardena’s skateboard park project a reality.
Both of our skateboard parks have been extremely well received by our City Council, our residents and our
visitors. We are amazed at the number of children and adults that frequent our park, coming from a variety of
nationalities, backgrounds and skating ability. Our parks have been featured in countless You Tube videos
featuring children just learning to skate and even more common, professional skateboarders amazing those
around the City of Gardena skateboard parks with their tricks and their skills.
We are very proud of our final projects in the City of Gardena and would proudly say that it was Spohn Ranch
who guided us to make the best skateboard parks around.
- Kelly Fujio, Director of Recreation, Human Services, Parks and Facilities
ERNEST MCBRIDE SKATEPARK – Long Beach, California
ROWLEY & JOHNSON SKATEPARKS – Gardena, California
“This letter is an opportunity to express our gratitude and appreciation for the phenomenal experience we had
working with Spohn Ranch. Through the entire process Spohn Ranch was committed to helping us reach our
desired outcome and that was clear through the entire year of collaboration. As we conceptualized, designed
and built the skate park. Due to our lack of knowledge we needed a lot of guidance and assistance and Spohn
Ranch provided that during each step. Perhaps most noteworthy and helpful was the way the team is
designed. Each phase afforded us the opportunity to work with a different senior staff on the Spohn Ranch
team; consistently what was demonstrated was a passion for skating, a desire to work collaboratively and true
commitment to the project.
Spohn Ranch demonstrated again and again their willingness to work with multiple players, follow agency
protocol and make this BIG project run smoothly. This was a large endeavor for our agency both in terms of a
paradigm shift in embracing a new and different ways of programming for our children, and in terms of the
financial commitment. I can say wholeheartedly we are overwhelming pleased with the results and would
recommend Spohn Ranch with no reservations.”
- Angela Chambers, Vice President of Educational Services
“I want to extend my sincere thanks to the dedicated Spohn Ranchers who went above and beyond in their
role as designers and builders of our new skatepark at Woodside Park.
We presented you with a real challenge – a site that had unique constraints on all four sides. Even with a
retaining wall on one end, a specimen tree at the opposite end, and a gym wall and basketball court on the
respective sides – your design department emerged with the perfect solution. The sculptural nature of the
elements combined with the aesthetic appeal of the colored concrete, made the skatepark seamlessly
integrate with the rest of the park. As I mentioned previously, I intend to submit this project for a design
award. The project is an excellent example of a reuse project in an urban environment.
Exceeding our expectations at every step of the way, the passion and professionalism of Spohn Ranch was
vital in the enduring success of our skate spot. Your crew came exactly on time (something like 4 am in the
morning and they were still on California time!) and worked seamlessly with our Central Maintenance masonry
staff in an incredible collaboration.
Going beyond the role of designer and builder, I also appreciated the follow up after the project was
completed. When dealing with fencing issues and conflicts between basketball players and skateboarders, we
were blessed with incredible insight and guidance that only a well-rounded firm like yours could provide.
Thanks again for a job well done.”
- Ellen Masciocchi, Project Manager
WOODSIDE SKATEPARK – Silver Spring, Maryland
BOARD OF CHILD CARE SKATEPARK – Baltimore, Maryland
“We recently completed the construction of our skatepark and the quality of work displayed by your company,
Spohn Ranch, your employees and sub-contractors was outstanding. They showed a high degree of integrity,
responsibility, professionalism and ambition.
From the beginning to the end of the project you were dependable in regards to safety and quality, especially
throughout the build. Your judgment resulted in a design that is not only logical and practical, but so unique
that has left our “kids” speechless. Rumor has it that it's a “big hit” and even with the frigid temperatures it is
still being used in December.
Spohn Ranch has been a staple in the Park and Recreation field for quite some time, you continue to exceed
expectations and your products/services would be an asset to any organization so I am pleased to give you my
wholehearted endorsement. It is with great pleasure that I recommend Spohn Ranch to everyone for design
and construction of a skatepark in their community.”
- Sue Swithin, Director
“It is truly my pleasure to write about our working relationship with Spohn Ranch Skateparks. We became
acquainted with Spohn Ranch eight years ago with construction of our first skate park. The project was an
enormous success for the Township and opened with much fanfare. The success of that project was the
reason we re-engaged with Spohn Ranch three years ago for construction of a much more ambitious plaza
style park in another section of the Township.
During the course of our second project, Jason was instrumental in keeping the project moving through what
at some times appeared to be almost insurmountable hurdles. He spent considerable time and effort working
with our youth advisory group to insure the park met with all their hopes and wishes. Once the conceptual
phase was completed, Spohn worked with our consulting engineering firm to develop plans and specifications.
It was when we got the construction phase that Spohn Ranch became the driving force that kept the project
moving. As we entered the construction stage, financing became a huge issue at one point, the Mayor actually
cancelled the project. However, Spohn Ranch and Jason in particular, kept the project moving and worked
with the Township to develop creative solutions to our problems. We are now in the final stages of the
construction and hope to have the park open before the end of November.
We are already receiving rave reviews from our skateboard contingency about the layout and construction
quality. I can honestly say the project would not have been achieved without the drive of Spohn Ranch.
Therefore, I am happy to recommend Spohn Ranch for the design and construction of any new skate parks.”
- Scott Thompson, Municipal Engineer
MILESTONE PARK SKATEPARK – Sandwich, Illinois
EVERGREEN SKATEPARK – Woodbridge, New Jersey
“From the initial group meeting with the local skaters, through conceptual/final design and construction,
Spohn Ranch brought their "A" game. Spohn Ranch's knowledge and experience in the design and
construction of skatepark is beyond words. I do not hesitate in recommending Spohn Ranch to design and
construct your skatepark. Spohn Ranch's attitude and passion in skateparks is so contagious that it makes
everyone love the sport of skateboarding.”
- Edward Balderrama, Project Manager
“There are not enough words to adequately say thank you to each and every one of you for your support of
our Fort Irwin Community. People on post can only say wonderful things about the design, the project and the
incredible skaters who showed up for the event. Each of you made a huge difference in the lives of our soldiers
and their families yesterday. The skatepark is having a huge impact on our children and soldiers who need a
place for recreation. On behalf of our soldiers, families and civilians – thank you for your generosity, talents,
and heart!”
- Jackie Hoggins, Fort Irwin Marketing Chief
“The Oregon Park District would like to personally thank you for your assistance and expertise over the last 5
years with the design/build of our Skate Plaza. Working with Spohn Ranch helped turn our vision into reality!
I was very impressed with Spohn Ranch’s ability to guide the Oregon Park District through the beginning steps
of gathering information all the way through the grand opening. The years of expertise from each of the Spohn
Ranch staffers was evident in the professionalism and ease of the entire process.
Oregon Park District staff always felt that this was a community project developed by Oregon. Throughout
every development and construction phase Spohn Ranch was sure to provide us with details that would best
suit our community and vision. Spohn Ranch was able to provide Oregon Park District with a design/build that
captured the streetscape feel and skateable art our community and youth were looking for.
Prairie Side Skate Plaza opened September 2nd to young and old skaters sharing a common interest. The day of
our grand opening I was pleasantly surprised to see hundreds of people turnout for a glimpse of the hoopla.
Most were pleasantly surprised at how well the skate plaza fit in to our existing landscape and how eager the
kids were to use it. The addition of a skate plaza to our recreation facilities has definitely been a success. A
success made possible through the assistance and expertise of Spohn Ranch.”
- Erin Folk, Superintendent of Recreation
SIDEWINDER SKATEPARK – Fort Irwin, California
PRAIRIE SIDE SKATE PLAZA – Oregon, Illinois
WASHINGTON PARK SKATEPARK – Alamogordo, New Mexico
“The City of Long Beach sent out request for qualifications to several professional design/construction firms.
After a lengthy review of qualifications, responding to our questions and concerns, and meeting with city
officials, I felt Spohn Ranch understood the intent most clearly to provide a safe, designated place for
skateboarders of all skill levels.
Jason and his team met witih local skateboarders and residents to incorporate their comments and concerns
into their design. The design they presented was a state-of-the-art park that naturally blended in the
surrounding environment at the City’s Recreation Center along Reynold’s Channel.
Phase II was the construction of the new park. The construction phase went smoothly. I found their crews to
be professional and the work was completed on schedule.
Our goal was to create a skatepark for all skill levels and Spohn Ranch took our request and exceeded our
expectations. I recommend this company to anyone looking for a successful collaborative project.”
- James LaCarrubba, City of Long Beach Department of Public Works
““We cut the ribbon at Fireman’s Skate and Bike Park with a large crowd of eager riders poised and ready to
make a run and the crowd has hardly diminished since. To put it simply, the park is a great success.
From the beginning planning stages, you and your team have been very responsive to the wants and needs of
the local community. The public workshops that you conducted proved to be productive and a useful tool for
gathering information. Spohn Ranch collaborated well with the local architects and engineers to keep the
project on budget and moving forward.
We are very proud of our skatepark and would recommend Spohn Ranch to others. One of our nearby
communities recently announced plans to construct their own skatepark and we were pleased to hear that
they chose Spohn Ranch as their skatepark designer.”
- Michel Claudet, Terrebonne Parish President
LONG BEACH SKATEPARK – Long Beach, New York
FIREMAN’S SKATE & BIKE PARK – Houma, Louisiana
“It is with great honor that I write on behalf of the teachers, staff, and students of Joseph Le Conte Middle
School. We would like to thank Spohn Ranch and their high-caliber team for helping make our dream come
true—to build the first-ever Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Skateboard Park on a school campus!
The true professionalism and compassion of the Spohn Ranch team was present each day from beginning to
end. Throughout the process of designing and construction, Spohn Ranch’s team of experts displayed
trustworthiness, compassion, and reliability. It was very important to Joseph Le Conte Middle School’s staff
and LAUSD to hire a skateboard construction company that would keep the safety of our students in mind.
Words cannot describe the true giving nature of the Spohn Ranch team, who never hesitated to answer
questions about the construction process or listen to our concerns. Moreover, the excellent quality and
craftsmanship met and exceeded our expectations.
December 2013 marked the first year anniversary of the birth of our skateboard park. Joseph Le Conte Middle
School Skateboard Park project began with a group of teachers and a simple idea. This idea could not have
happened without Spohn Ranch.”
- Irene Chong, Los Angeles Unified School District
“I own a skate shop in upstate New York and work for one of the largest BMX companies in the world – Kink
BMX. We wanted to get a park built for the kids of Canandaigua so in 2007 we petitioned the State of New
York for a grant with the intention of building a concrete skatepark that would be free for everyone to use. We
had another company bid on the project first and produce drawings. When Spohn Ranch bid on the project
they were honest with us that we wouldn’t have been able to afford our blueprints. I was nervous that the
other company was going to start the project and then ask for more money to complete it, but there wasn’t
going to be more money, so this could have turned into a major disaster.
Spohn Ranch was willing to work with us and what we had to spend. In our discussions we asked for something
both skateboard and BMX oriented that would be not too difficult for beginners but enjoyable for anyone up
to a professional level. Spohn Ranch nailed it first try. In October 2011 the State finally came through with a
grant, but with the clause that we had to spend the money by the years end. If you’re familiar with Upstate
New York’s weather that time of the year, this was going to be challenging if not impossible to accomplish.
The crew at Spohn Ranch jumped at the challenge and banged out the entire project before the month ended.
My experience with Spohn Ranch could not have possibly gone any better. Three years later we’re still skating
and riding and the park is as good as the day we got it. Seriously, you guys rule! I could never begin to thank
you enough.”
- Chris Riesenberger, Outlaw Boards & BMX
LE CONTE MIDDLE SCHOOL SKATEPARK – Los Angeles, California
OUTLAW SKATEPARK – Canandaigua, New York
Sherry Vavra, Executive Director – Mahaska Community Recreation Foundation
“When you are replacing a wood ramp skatepark built in the late 90’s over top of a Cold War era Nike Ajax
Missile Magazine on a limited budget, I cannot imagine having a better partner than Spohn Ranch. Your team
at Spohn were the ultimate professionals – easy to work with, committed to delivering an excellent product,
patient and extremely responsive.
We selected Spohn Ranch for our project after hearing from our group of children and adult skaters/bmx’ers
that all of their favorite skateparks were designed and built by Spohn. Staff and riders were not disappointed.
Thank you for transforming our old wood ramp park into a skating mecca for our area.”
- Mark Furlo, Director of Parks and Recreation
This letter is being written to express our complete satisfaction with the services provided by Spohn Ranch, Inc
in the design, coordination, and construction of the City of Waterford Skate Spot. From the onset of the
project, Spohn Ranch, Inc employees were very responsive, understanding, realistic, and attentive to the
community wants and needs of the Skate Spot. During the design phase, many design concepts and
suggestions surfaced. Spohn did a great job in taking the suggestions and providing an array of alternatives to
choose from, which made the resulting product customized to fit our particular needs.
We have received numerous complements on the Skate Spot facility regarding the functionality and usefulness
as well as being one that is attractive and usable by all ages and all levels.
From the design process to the construction, all of Spohn Ranch Employees were always very friendly, helpful,
ready with suggestions for problems, and always VERY FLEXIBLE. I personally enjoyed working with the
construction team on the project. I found them to be very pleasant, courteous, and clean and neat in their
work. They were very customer service oriented and would answer questions from many of the children and
adults who had them.
We would not hesitate to recommend Spohn Ranch, Inc to construct a Skate Park or Skate Spot. They have a
very deep and sincere passion and commitment to the sport that is very evident in their work.
- Matt Erickson, Public Works Director
NIKE PARK SKATEPARK – Isle of Wight, Virginia
BEARD PARK SKATEPARK – Waterford, California
“Spohn Ranch first came to work with the Mahaska Community Recreation Foundation (MCRF) on our
community BMX-Skate park in the summer of 2010. Our Urban Park project was complete and operational two
years later, hosting its grand opening May of 2012.
As the Executive Director of MCRF I have nothing but good things to say about Spohn Ranch’s design and
execution of our skatepark project. At first our foundation was working with two companies on designs and
were undecided as to which company or design would best fit our community. When MCRF approached the
two companies voicing the youth’s desire to include a staircase in the park, we received Spohn Ranch’s answer
as follows “In the eyes of a skater, a good stair set gives you plenty of flat ground to approach and gain speed.
When stairs are placed at the end of a ramp, skaters are forced to re-position their feet several times as they
ride up the ramp. This leaves them feeling unbalanced as they attempt their trick down the stairs.” Receiving a
knowledgeable and thought-out answer to a desire for our park, that had not gained attention from an
alternative company, was the first step to a lasting relationship between MCRF and Spohn Ranch.
Spohn Ranch first sent a representative from their California home base to our Iowa site to gain a better
perspective of our needs and space. Vince Onel visited the site and then met with our board and youth
committee members for further discussion. His commitment to gaining a full understanding of our needs and
bringing this back to his team to translate our community’s vision into a creative yet viable concrete skate park
earned him and his team the respect of our board members, our youth riders and our community.
By the end of the project, the unique design and specific features has given our beginner riders the soft space
needed to learn the skill as well as our more advanced riders the challenging features to make our park one of
the most unique in Iowa. Features praised by both local and visiting riders are those such as an exceptionally
smooth concrete surface, layered levels, incorporating streetscape in the park, a built-in staircase and plenty of
approach space. Spohn Ranch’s extensive knowledge in the recreation field of bike and skate parks allowed
them to go beyond expectations and update designs to be more inline with the “Urban Park” feel that our
board was seeking as well as with the unique features that our riders requested.
Communication with Spohn Ranch was timely throughout the project and MCRF was always made to feel that
they had our best interest in mind. Throughout the process Spohn Ranch gave our project a personal touch. I
was overwhelmed when Vince, again our Spohn Ranch representative, made the trip back for our grand
opening and shared the day with 600 community members. I expect Spohn Ranch would apply these same
skills and attributes to any project in which they partner. It is without hesitation that I recommend the Spohn
Ranch company for skate and BMX bike park designer for your project.”
- Sherry Vavra, Executive Director – Mahaska Community Recreation Foundation
OSKALOOSA URBAN PARK – Oskaloosa, Iowa
Sherry Vavra, Executive Director – Mahaska Community Recreation Foundation
“Throughout the process of planning and construction, Spohn Ranch staff proved themselves to be accessible,
professional and knowledgeable. Most importantly, they were willing to accommodate our needs and engage
in the process based on our timeline and structure. This project began in 2007 when two seventh graders
applied for a small grant because they wanted to develop a place to skate in their neighborhood of Little
Village, on the southwest side of Chicago. They organized other young skaters and created a strong youth
group that has done the planning, designing, fundraising, and partnership development to make a skate spot in
this community a reality. Spohn Ranch staff were willing to engage with stakeholders, provide time for
community input as decisions were made and make continuous adjustments to design based on this input.
They were able to adjust to the dynamic of our group, thus respecting and promoting the ownership that
local skaters have for this project, while satisfying the needs of the Chicago Park District, which manages the
land where the Plaza is located. Construction was timely and skillfully done, and staff were very
communicative during each step of the process.
We now have a beautiful Plaza that is a source of pride for the local skate community and has become a
destination for skaters around the Chicagoland area. We would certainly work with Spohn Ranch again as we
move forward with this and other projects.”
- Simone Alexander, Project Manager – Enlace Chicago
“When the City of Berea began to seriously talk about building a skatepark, I started to contact several of the
skatepark builders in the industry to find out what was available on the market. We also called and spoke to
several other parks and recreation departments all over the state to find out what worked and what didn’t
work with their particular skateparks. It was through this research that Spohn Ranch’s impeccable reputation
for their quality work came to light.
From the preliminary planning stages to construction, Spohn Ranch always maintained the utmost customer
service approach. After every public meeting I would touch base with them to discuss ideas and input that we
had received from our user group. You worked very hard to accommodate our budget, space and user needs,
and we ended up with a design that made everyone happy!
Because of Spohn Ranch our skatepark will not only last us lifetime, but create friendships and memories for all
of our skatepark enthusiasts. Thank you to all of the staff who worked so hard to make our dreams a reality!”
- Maggy Kriebel, Parks and Recreation Director
LITTLE VILLAGE SKATE PLAZA – Chicago, Illinois
BEREA SKATEPARK – Berea, Kentucky
“I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to you and your staff in assisting Herbert, Rowland & Grubic,
Inc. (HRG) as Bellevue Borough Engineer and by providing design/build services for the Phase 1 and 2 Bellevue
Borough, Bayne Park Skate Plaza project.
This project was initially conceived by the Borough in 2010. Funding for the Phase 1 and Phase 2 plaza
construction work was received over a two year period from various federal, state and local sources. Because
of this funding mix, a competitive bid process was required. Spohn Ranch was selected as the design/build
firm for both phases of plaza construction. You and your staff assisted the Borough and HRG in all phases of
design, construction and management of subcontractors. Your attention to detail and communication with all
parties involved (not to mention patience related to weather delays) allowed the Borough to realize the
completion of Phase 1 in August 2011 and Phase 2 in June of 2013.
Borough leaders, local skateboard enthusiasts and adjacent municipality representatives have provided much
positive feedback on your company’s work.
I would like to again express my appreciation for your efforts and state that I would be happy to recommend
Spohn Ranch for the design and construction of any new skateparks.”
- John Rusnak, P.E.
“My husband and I were part of the committee that worked with our local park board to develop a skate and
bike park in the small City of Wyoming. Having never been part of a project like this, we were immediately
impressed with Spohn Ranch from the first phone call we made. We had gotten Spohn Ranch’s name from
another skatepark we visit frequently with our kids and from first contact they assured us that they could
assist with answering all of our questions, no matter how trivial, and would be able to help us through the
process of fundraising and working with our city officials to get the project implemented.
Our project was somewhat difficult in that we are a small community with a limited budget, yet we have many
different types of riders in our area. We needed a park that would work for skaters and bikers, young and old.
Regardless, the team at Spohn Ranch did an excellent job of explaining every step and made it all work.
We ended up with a beautiful design that met all of the needs of the kids in our community and fit well
within our limited budget. This was a learning experience for all involved, but Spohn Ranch made it an easy
process and continued to follow up with us throughout. Our park has only been open for about 6 weeks, but it
is a huge success story and we have Spohn Ranch to thank for that!
- Lois and Russell Janke, Wyoming, MN Skatepark Committee
BAYNE PARK SKATEPARK – Bellevue, Pennsylvania
GOODVIEW AVENUE SKATEPARK – Wyoming, Minnesota
“I want to take this opportunity to thank Spohn Ranch for your hard work on our recently completed skate
park in Colton. When we began this project several years ago, I had no idea that the park would have such a
significant, positive impact on our community. The park has been literally packed with avid skaters on a daily
basis since its opening, and we have heard nothing but positive comments from our residents, elected &
appointed officials, and most importantly, our teen skaters themselves.
I don't think this project would have realized the current level of success without the efforts of Spohn Ranch.
You worked closely with our teens on the design, so that at the end of the process, the design was truly
"theirs." This made the design approval process flow very smoothly, and given that the teens were heavily
involved in selecting our vendor, this also made the purchasing decision easy for our City Council.
Spohn Ranch staff were always available and helpful throughout the process, and you communicated and
coordinated well with Colton's staff to ensure that everyone was on the same page. Once the project was
approved, the construction process was seamless and quick, with park completion in less than one month,
without any setbacks.
The park opening that you coordinated for us was likewise well-received. Our teens and residents appreciated
the fact that you didn't just build a park and walk away. Rather, you were a part of our community as we
brought a much-needed amenity to the citizens of Colton.”
- Bill Smith, Director of Community Services
“The City of Long Beach is pleased to provide a letter of reference for Spohn Ranch Skateparks. Recently,
Spohn Ranch Skateparks completed the 14th Street Skatepark in Long Beach, California. From planning
through construction, we are impressed with their knowledge, professionalism and unmatched quality of
service.
In addition to the expertise of Spohn Ranch Skateparks, we are particularly impressed with the unique design,
which was a thoughtful integration combined with invaluable input from our community. As a result, our grand
opening was a success, and we are pleased with the ongoing use of our facility by the local youth.
Should anyone wish to discuss this project further, I will be happy to provide an outstanding reference
regarding your abilities.”
- Sandra J. Gonzalez, Manager – Planning and Development Bureau
14th STREET SKATEPARK – Long Beach, California
CESAR CHAVEZ SKATEPARK – Colton, California
“I am pleased to write a letter about our relationship with Spohn Ranch. The City worked with Spohn Ranch
over a two year period to develop a concept, construct, and complete a skatepark for the City of Junction City.
Spohn Ranch went to great lengths to incorporate our design requests and work with our budget to create a
skatepark design that the community could support. Jason took the time to break the project into phases to
make our fundraising campaign more achievable and provided referrals on available grants. Spohn Ranch was
patient with us as we worked through a fundraising campaign and was willing to re-work the design as needed
and when needed. Spohn Ranch’s greatest strengths were both their creativity and their flexibility. Jason
and his team really gave us the impression that we could accomplish the project and that they would be there
with us throughout the project to completion, no matter how long it took.
We all celebrated the opening of our Skatepark in October 2012 and we have received excellent feedback from
participants about the flow and the features of the park. I recommend Spohn Ranch for skatepark design and
construction.”
- Melissa Bowers, Community Services Department Director
“In 2010, the North Wasco Park District conducted a nationwide search and competitive bid to hire a skatepark
design/build firm for our first concrete skatepark. We chose Spohn Ranch, based on their successful track
record and innovative bid design.
In our experience, Aaron Spohn and Spohn Ranch have a design/build approach that I believe people will find
very rare and refreshing these days. As an example, even before a formal arrangement was defined, Aaron
made a site visit to give us his professional opinion about overall park planning and potential site issues. He
and the Spohn Ranch staff were extremely accommodating and friendly throughout the entire process. Not
only are they extremely knowledgeable about both the architectural and contractual aspects of skatepark
development, they seem to have a great natural sense for working with local skaters.
When the public involvement process revealed a strong desire to change the bid design, their design team
switched gears and did a totally original design that satisfied two different skating styles. Mark Bradford and
the construction crew were able to leverage our local contractor’s work and did a great job with the poured
concrete. We wanted to add a unique feature to our design by utilizing a columnar basalt boulder for the Bent
Penny and it really turned out great. Since the park has opened, it has enjoyed heavy use including
sponsorships from Nike and Dakine to provide regional skate competitions.
I would highly recommend that any agencies considering a skatepark work with Spohn Ranch to design and
build their facility.”
- Scott Green, Executive Director
JUNCTION CITY SKATEPARK – Junction City, Oregon
THOMPSON PARK SKATEPARK – The Dalles, Oregon
“I want to say a BIG “THANK-YOU” to you and all at Spohn Ranch, Inc. who helped to build the Lathrop Skate
Park. We have been open for over a week now and everyone, skaters, kids, parents, neighbors City council
members, community members and recreation staff from other cities say we have one of the ‘sickest’ parks in
the Central Valley! The skaters who make up the Lathrop Skatepark Committee are filled with pride because of
what they have succeeded in doing – bringing a great skate park to our town.
Your staff helped to make critical improvements to Site Design Group’s initial design, which not only saved the
City of Lathrop valuable CIP funds but also made the park a better, more fun and safer place to play. I also
have to compliment Damon Spohn and his crew, Mike Villalvazo, Joe Wagner, Michael Wiley and other staff
that worked so hard to build our park in very difficult conditions. We had the hottest two weeks of the year
and Damon and his crew worked long hours in grueling conditions often exceeding 100 degrees.
The craftsmanship is excellent and almost everyone asks’ “who built this park?” Luckily, and with great pride, I
get to respond, “Spohn Ranch built our park!” Skaters give me knowing nods of appreciation whenever I say
that, rolling away from me knowing that the premiere skatepark building company on Planet Earth built the
Lathrop Skate Park.
Thanks for all your hard work, your hours of phone calls and e-mails to make our park the success it is today. It
has instantly become the busiest recreation facility in our town with 100 to 200 users a day.”
- Gabriel Goulart, Recreation Supervisor
“On behalf of the Oswegoland Park District, I want to say how pleased we are with our new concrete skate
park. The comments from the community have been overwhelmingly positive. On sunny days, the skate park is
packed with kids. But, even on the coldest of winter days, as long as there is no snow, there is a skateboarder
or BMX biker in our park. For our Park District, that is what it is all about—creating opportunities for a healthy
community.
During the design process, Spohn Ranch representatives Aaron and Jason listened and worked closely with us
to customize our skate park to fit the needs of our community.
During the construction, Doug, Mark and his team were knowledgeable professionals and communicated well
with us. The precise engineering of the concrete allowed for a smooth construction process. Spohn Ranch also
hired outstanding, experienced local subcontractors to successfully complete the other facets of the
project. Again, this was a rewarding project for our park district and we enjoyed working with Spohn Ranch to
bring it to reality.”
- Chad Feldetoo, ASLA, Senior Park Planner
LATHROP SKATEPARK – Lathrop, California
PRAIRIE POINT SKATEPARK – Oswego, Illinois
“The City of Woodland Park is pleased to provide a letter of reference for Spohn Ranch. In July 2011, Spohn
Ranch completed the Red Mountain Adventure Park project which included a concrete skate park and dirt
BMX course. From planning through construction, we were impressed with their knowledge, professionalism,
and quality of service.
During the design process, Spohn Ranch representatives Jason Baldessari and Vince Onel engaged our local
skaters and BMX riders to customize our park to fit the needs of our community. We are particularly
impressed with the unique design, which incorporated the input from our community. The comments from the
park users have been overwhelmingly positive. This was a rewarding project for our community and we
enjoyed working with Spohn Ranch. Our grand opening was a huge success with over 200 people attending.
We are pleased with the ongoing use of our facility by the youth and adults in our community.”
- Cindy Keating, Parks and Recreation Director
“I am writing this letter to express my highest level of satisfaction with Spohn Ranch Skateparks and their work
on the North Trail skate court project with the Miami Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces
Department. From the conceptual design phase to the ultimate construction of the project, Mr. Jason
Baldesari and his team provided an exemplary level of service and were absolutely instrumental in delivering a
quality product to the residents of Miami Dade County.
As the lead designer of the project, I was truly grateful to work with an organization that clearly cares about
their customers as evidenced by their level of communication, service, and professionalism. Beyond providing
what we required, Jason consistently demonstrated a positive and ‘can-do’ attitude that made working with
Spohn Ranch an absolute pleasure.
During the construction phase of the project, the Spohn Ranch team was actively engaged in the planning and
coordination of construction activities and maintained an effective channel of communication with the
general contractor on the project as well as with our internal construction manager. This was critical in
completing the skate court on schedule and meeting the precise specifications called for on the plans. The
Spohn Ranch construction representatives, Mr. Doug Hagen and Ms. Olivia Rich, did a great job in working with
our general contractor to make sure he understood and followed the proper procedures. Upon witnessing the
completed skate court, I could not be more satisfied with the way it turned out. Having been an amateur
skateboarder and bmx rider in my younger years, I may have a unique perspective on the quality and appeal of
this project. From this perspective, I simply see a beautiful park that begs to be skated – perhaps this is the
most significant comment I can say about Spohn Ranch and what they do. For all of the reasons mentioned
above, I would strongly recommend Spohn Ranch for design and construction of any new skatepark.”
- Manuel Docurro, PE
RED MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE PARK – Woodland Park, Colorado
NORTH TRAIL PARK SKATE COURT – Miami, Florida
AWARDS
& RECOGNITION
NEW JERSEY RECREATION AND PARKS ASSOCIATION
Award for Excellence in Design, 2013 (Holland Park Skate Plaza – Elizabeth, NJ)
NEW JERSEY SOCIETY OF MUNICIPAL ENGINEERS
Municipal Project of the year, 2013 (Dealy Field Skatepark – Sea Isle City, NJ)
AMERICAN PUBLIC WORKS ASSOCIATION – KENTUCKY CHAPTER
Project of the year, 2014 (Chautauqua Park Skatepark – Owensboro, KY)
LOUISIANA MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION
2014 Community Development Award, 2014 (Fireman’s Skate & Bike Park – Houma, LA)
CITY OF SPARTANBURG, SOUTH CAROLINA
Award for Excellence in Design, 2010 (Hot Spot Skatepark)
CALIFORNIA PARK AND RECREATION SOCIETY
Award of Excellence for Recreation/ Community Services, 2009 (Fontana, CA)
IOWA READY MIXED CONCRETE ASSOCIATION
Excellence in Concrete Award, 2012 (Oskaloosa Skatepark – Oskaloosa, IA)
WORLD OF CONCRETE
Finalist for “Crews that Rock” Award, 2011 & 2013 (Dew Tour Bowl & BSA Summit)
SKATEPARK ASSOCIATION OF USA
Award for Design and Manufacturing Excellence, 2004
CONCRETE DISCIPLES
Award for Excellence in Skatepark Construction, 2001
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS/URBAN LAND INSTITUTE
Award for Excellence Nominee, 2010 (Daybreak Skatepark – South Jordan, UT)
HUCK MAGAZINE
“The Future of Skatepark Design”, 2008 (Daybreak Skatepark – South Jordan, UT)
INC. MAGAZINE
Honoree of Nation’s 5,000 Fastest Growing Private Companies, 2009-2013
CLIENT
REFERENCES
Spohn Ranch has successfully completed 700+ design and design/build projects in 20+ years of experience. For the
sake of being concise, in the following pages we’ve highlighted a few recent projects and client references.
Comprehensive project and reference lists are available upon request.
BOND PARK SKATEPARK – JANESVILLE, WISCONSIN
Client Contact: Cullen Slapak, City of Janesville Parks Director
Email: slapak@ci.janesville.wi.us | Phone: (608) 373-3406
CAPE MAY COUNTY SKATEPARK – OCEAN CITY, NEW JERSEY
Client Contact: Mike DeVlieger, City of Ocean City City Councilman
Email: mdevlieger@ocnj.us | Phone: (609) 399-6111
FIREMAN’S SKATE & BIKE PARK – HOUMA, LOUISIANA
Client Contact: Christopher Pulaski, Terrebonne Parish Planning
Email: Cpulaski@tpcg.org | Phone: (985) 873-6568
SPOHN RANCH, INC. | P 626-330-5803 | F 626-330-5503 | W SPOHNRANCH.COM
E INFO@SPOHNRANCH.COM | 6824 S CENTINELA AVE. LOS ANGELES, CA 90230
DESIGN. BUILD. COME TOGETHER.
ORONO PARK SKATEPARK – PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE
NOVEMBER DECEMBER JANUARY
NOV
2-6
NOV
9-13
NOV
16-20
NOV
23-30
DEC
1-4
DEC
7-11
DEC
14-18
DEC
21-31
JAN
4-8
JAN
11-15
JAN
18-22
JAN
25-29
CONTRACT AWARD &
EXECUTION
PROJECT KICK-OFF MEETING
SITE WALKTHROUGH
LAUNCH FACEBOOK PAGE
INFORMATION GATHERING
& REVIEW
DESIGN WORKSHOP #1
SCHEMATIC DESIGN
DESIGN WORKSHOP #2
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
SPOHN RANCH, INC. | P 626-330-5803 | F 626-330-5503 | W SPOHNRANCH.COM
E INFO@SPOHNRANCH.COM | 6824 S CENTINELA AVE. LOS ANGELES, CA 90230
DESIGN. BUILD. COME TOGETHER.
ORONO PARK SKATEPARK – PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE
FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL
FEB
1-5
FEB
8-12
FEB
15-19
FEB
22-29
MAR
1-4
MAR
7-11
MAR
14-18
MAR
21-31
APR
1-8
APR
11-15
APR
18-22
APR
25-29
80% CONSTRUCTION
DOCUMENTS
CLIENT REVIEW & REDLINE
95% CONSTRUCTION
DOCUMENTS
CLIENT REVIEW & REDLINE
100% CONSTRUCTION
DOCUMENTS
PHASE-1 – SCHEMATIC DESIGN
TASK COST
DESIGN WORKSHOP $1,500.00
CAD DRAFTING FOR SCHEMATIC DESIGN $2,000.00
RENDERING FOR SCHEMATIC DESIGN $500.00
COST ESTIMATING $500.00
PROJECT MANAGEMENT & COORDINATION $500.00
TOTAL COST $5,000.00
PHASE-2 – DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
TASK COST
DESIGN WORKSHOP $1,500.00
CAD DRAFTING FOR DESIGN DEVELOPMENT $2,000.00
RENDERING FOR DESIGN DEVELOPMENT $500.00
COST ESTIMATING $500.00
PROJECT MANAGEMENT & COORDINATION $500.00
TOTAL COST $5,000.00
PHASE-3 – CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
TASK COST
CAD DRAFTING FOR CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS $3,500.00
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS $500.00
MINIMAL IMPACT DESIGN STANDARDS (MIDS) REPORT $500.00
STAMP & SIGN DRAWINGS $1,000.00
COST ESTIMATING $500.00
PROJECT MANAGEMENT & COORDINATION $500.00
TOTAL COST $6,500.00
ADD ALTERNATES
TASK COST
SOIL BORINGS & GEOTECHNICAL REPORT $3,500.00
SITE SURVEY & AUTOCAD BASE $3,500.00
CONSULTANT COST
& HOURLY RATES
REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES
Reimbursable expenses are factored into the above costs. When incurred, they are billed at cost plus a 10%
administrative fee.
Printing, plotting & copying
Shipping & handling
Air travel, lodging, rental car & rental car fuel for in-person meetings
TOTAL NOT-TO-EXCEED COST
TASK COST
PHASE-1 – SCHEMATIC DESIGN $5,000.00
PHASE-2 – DESIGN DEVELOPMENT $5,000.00
PHASE-3 – CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS $6,500.00
SOIL BORINGS & GEOTECHNICAL REPORT $3,500.00
SITE SURVEY & AUTOCAD BASE $3,500.00
TOTAL NOT-TO-EXCEED COST $23,500.00
HOURLY RATES
STAFF POSITION HOURLY RATE
AARON SPOHN PLANNING & DESIGN $100
DAMON SPOHN DRAFTING & DESIGN $90
CHARLIE WILKINS DRAFTING & DESIGN $80
VINCENT ONEL DRAFTING & DESIGN $80
MARK BRADFORD CONSTRUCTION ADMIN $100
DOUG HAGEN COST ESTIMATING $60
STEPHAN ROSE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE $125
MATT MILLER ENGINEERING $135
CAD OPERATOR COMPUTER DRAFTING $50
RENDERING ARTIST RENDERING $50