If you’ve ever rolled through the Philadelphia suburbs looking for a spot that isn't just a generic slab of asphalt with a few rusted rails, you’ve probably heard of "Roslyn." That’s the shorthand locals use for the Patrick Kerr Memorial Skatepark. It sits tucked away in Abington Township, specifically within Roslyn Park, and honestly, it’s got a soul that most prefab parks just can't touch.
It’s not just about the concrete.
The whole place is a tribute to a kid who lived for skating. Patrick Kerr was only 15 when he was killed in a skating accident back in 2002. He wasn't just some random skater; he was the one leading the charge to get a park built in the area. After he passed, his friends, family, and a dedicated crew of local skaters basically willed this place into existence. It took seven years of fighting with township commissioners and fundraising like crazy. When it finally opened in 2009, it wasn't just a win for the local scene—it was a promise kept.
What Most People Get Wrong About the Layout
A lot of people pull up to 2726 Fernwood Avenue and expect a beginner-friendly "flow" park. You know the type—mellow transitions and plenty of space to wobble around.
Roslyn isn't that.
The park is surprisingly advanced. It’s tight. It’s fast. If you aren't paying attention, you're going to collide with a BMX rider or a local who has their lines memorized down to the millimeter. The design was a collaboration between Tom Martyn—a legitimate skatepark designer—and Pat Bodor, a mason who also happens to be a skater. That "skater-built" DNA is everywhere.
The Obstacles That Define the Park
- The Cradle / Over-Vert: This is the crown jewel. It’s a massive, looming concrete wave that literally curves back over your head. It’s intimidating as hell. You’ll see kids who haven't even hit puberty carving through it like it’s nothing, which is both inspiring and slightly depressing if you're still struggling with kickturns.
- The Brick Details: They used real brick in some of the features. Why? Because Philadelphia is a brick city. It’s a nod to the legendary (and often forbidden) street spots like LOVE Park and the old Temple University fountain. It gives the park a gritty, authentic feel that you just don't get with smooth-finished concrete alone.
- The Pyramid: It’s the centerpiece of the street section. It’s got a grind box on top and is positioned so you can hit it from multiple angles, provided the park isn't too crowded.
- The Bowl Corner: After you come off the pyramid, there’s a bowled-in corner that helps you keep your speed. This is crucial because the park is somewhat narrow. Without that flow, the whole thing would just be a "point and shoot" setup.
The Reality of Skating Here in 2026
Look, the park is over 15 years old now. Concrete ages. But because it was built by people who actually cared, it’s held up remarkably well.
The vibe is... specific.
It’s a "helmet park." Technically, Abington Township rules state you have to wear a helmet at all times. There’s often a supervisor on-site, and if the gates are locked, you’re out of luck. Most days, it’s open from 11:00 AM until dusk, weather permitting. Don't even think about showing up after a rainstorm; the locals are protective of the surface, and skating on wet concrete is a fast track to getting booted.
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One thing that makes Roslyn stand out is the mix. You’ll see old-school guys in their 40s who remember the "Before Times" (pre-2009) skating alongside 8-year-olds on scooters. On certain days, the bikes take over. The township has specific rules for BMX: your handlebars and pegs have to be covered with plastic or rubber ends. They aren't trying to be jerks; they just don't want the concrete chipped to pieces.
Why the Scholarship Matters
Most skateparks are just places to hang out. Patrick Kerr Memorial Skatepark is a bit different because it's connected to something bigger. The friends of the Kerr family still run "Skate Jams" and events that fund the Patrick Kerr Memorial Scholarship.
It’s one of the only scholarships in the country specifically for skaters.
It’s kind of a middle finger to the old stereotype that skaters are just "lazy kids" or "troublemakers." To get the scholarship, you have to be a skater, but you also have to have your act together academically. It’s a cool way to keep Patrick’s name alive while actually helping the next generation get through college.
Pro-Tips for Your First Visit
- Check the gate: If it’s locked, don't hop it. The township is strict, and it’s a quick way to get the park a bad reputation with the neighbors.
- Bring the gear: Seriously, bring a helmet. Even if you think you’re too cool for one, the supervisor might not let you in without it.
- Watch the flow: Before you drop in, stand on the bleachers (which are covered, by the way—great for parents) and watch how people are moving. The lines at Roslyn are tight, and snaking someone here is a major faux pas.
- Hydrate beforehand: There isn't a dedicated water fountain or a snack bar inside the gates. There’s a parking lot right there, so keep a cooler in your car.
Actionable Next Steps
If you're planning to hit up the Patrick Kerr Memorial Skatepark, here is your checklist to ensure a solid session:
- Verify the Hours: Check the Abington Township Parks & Rec website or local social media groups. If it’s been raining, it’s likely closed.
- Gear Check: Ensure your helmet is in your trunk. If you're on a bike, make sure your pegs are plastic or capped.
- Support the Cause: Look up the Patrick Kerr Memorial Scholarship Fund. Even if you aren't applying, attending one of their "Skate Jams" is the best way to give back to the community that built this place.
- Respect the Masonry: If you see a piece of the brickwork or concrete that needs love, don't try to DIY a fix. Report it to the township so it stays safe for everyone.
Roslyn isn't the biggest park in the world, and it definitely isn't the easiest. But it’s a piece of Pennsylvania skateboarding history. It’s proof that a community can turn a tragedy into a landmark. Whether you're there to huck yourself into the cradle or just to practice your 50-50s on the ledges, you’re skating on a lot of heart.