Skating mega-plex taking shape

By Staff
Thomas Tingle
Record Managing Editor
Construction of Madison's "Extreme Skate Park" located on Hughes Road is taking shape and will be ready to use by spring 2003.
David Buschmann, general contractor of the park, walked members of the Madison City Council and Mayor Jan Wells through the entire project site to explain what is planned for the entertainment skating mega-plex.
"Anyone who had driven past the skate park construction site can see the huge medal structures that have been set up to comprise the Extreme Skate Park portion of the complex," Buschmann said. "This is a one-of-a-kind skateboard park for Alabama. Upon its completion, Madison will be able to host large skateboard competitions that other larger cities have."
A small retail center is also planned for the complex. Buschmann said it would contain at least seven retail-oriented businesses.
A roller rink arena is also planned, along with a concession area, arcade and a rock-climbing wall. Included in the complex will be a two-story laser tag area.
"Next to the roller rink arena, we will have a roller blade, roller hockey and an indoor soccer area," Buschmann said. "A stage will also be built for events."
Outdoor paintball courts are planned and a miniature golf course is nearing completion.
"Batting cages and soccer cages are also on the plans and in the far southeast corner of the complex will be go-carts," Buschmann said.
Two pieces of property within the entire complex have been set aside for freestanding restaurants and an 80,000 square-foot building will also be built.
"There is nothing like this anywhere in Alabama and upon its completion, Madison will have one of the best entertainment complexes in the country," Mayor Wells said.
Buschmann said everything that is planned at the site would be built within a 5-year period.
"Based on the economy, we should be able to have all of this done in the next five years," Buschmann said. "The Extreme Skate Park and miniature golf course is nearly finished. We're hoping to have it ready by next spring."