A Northampton man recently asked borough council to permit a skate park where the presently deteriorated park and bicycle area is located.

Brian Ruff told council at the May 15 meeting, the skate park would be an asset to the borough; serving as an area where children and adults could play roller derby or street hockey. The park might also lead to the formation of leagues.

Ruff said he envisions around 100 children involved, along with a number of adults.

"It's a great opportunity with the Phantoms coming to town," Ruff said.

He also said he looked at the Lerchenmiller Drive and Smith Lane site after reading a Northampton Press story on the condition of the skateboard park.

The borough recently removed lumbar, plywood and broken ramps, putting the public on notice the park could be in jeopardy.

Several individuals including Ruff would clean up the site, remove existing ramps and set up the skate park on the same area at no expense to the borough, Ruff said.

The 51-year-old Ruff, who has been involved in the sport for 25 years, said a facility will add to the borough.

Mertztown and Alburtis have similar parks, according to Ruff.

Council appeared supportive of Ruff's plans.

"It seems like a good idea," council President John Yirish said. "Council will kick it around a little before making its decision."

Ruff said if council approves the skate park, immediate work would begin to make the site ready for roller hockey and street hockey.

He said the site would be framed, netting would go up for the 100-by-60-foot park. Lighting is not presently being considered.

Council Vice President Robert McHale addressed community planner Victor Rodite, stating the new facility would be a candidate for grants,

Councilman Ed Pany said he has followed Ruff's career. Ruff was involved in a championship team.

Pany said Ruff's plans for the site "are excellent."

"It is for everyone, all your life,' Ruff said.

Many involved in roller hockey and street hockey are involved in ice hockey at a Whitehall arena.

"Once you get involved, it stays with you forever," Ruff added.