Jacksonville, Florida, November 28, 2025
Terry Harris, a retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant, has reopened Jacksonville’s legendary Sk8 City as Planet Skate. The 40,000-square-foot venue now features a skating rink, arcade, and glow-in-the-dark mini-golf, offering a safe space for families and youth on the Northside. Community leaders celebrate this initiative, which honors the original skating venue while catering to the modern recreational needs of the area, ultimately aiming to boost youth development and community engagement.
Jacksonville, Florida – In a bold move to revitalize Jacksonville’s Northside, Terry Harris, a retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant, has reopened the iconic Sk8 City skating rink. Now called Planet Skate, the venue provides an impressive 40,000-square-foot entertainment facility featuring a skating rink, arcade, and glow-in-the-dark mini-golf. This initiative seeks to create a safe and engaging environment for families and youth in the community.
Harris, who dedicated 35 years to military service, was driven by a desire to offer a space where young people can gather, build confidence, and enjoy recreational activities. He took on hands-on roles in the venue’s development, from constructing benches to adding personal artwork throughout the space. His commitment reflects the spirit of local entrepreneurship, demonstrating how individual efforts can lead to significant communal benefits.
The reopening of Planet Skate has been celebrated by the community, with local leaders and residents supporting the initiative. It not only honors the legacy of the original Sk8 City, established in the 1970s, but also addresses the community’s need for recreational spaces that encourage youth development and social engagement.
### A Look Back at Sk8 City
The original Sk8 City served as a central gathering place for families and youth in Jacksonville’s Northside. Its revival as Planet Skate symbolizes a dedication to preserving local history while adapting to the modern needs of today’s youth. The blend of nostalgia and innovation highlights the importance of recreational spaces in fostering community connections.
### Community Reception and Support
Since its opening, Planet Skate has received an overwhelmingly positive response from the community. Many see it as a vital part of Jacksonville’s ongoing efforts to enhance the Northside area. Local leaders have expressed their enthusiasm, recognizing the venue’s potential to create lasting family memories while engaging youth in positive activities.
### A Modern Take on Local Legacy
Planet Skate’s offerings — featuring a skating rink, arcade games, and mini-golf — are designed to attract a diverse group of visitors. By modernizing the beloved skating rink, Harris fulfills an important gap in recreational activities for families and kids, providing an alternative to digital entertainment and promoting physical activity.
### Commitment to Youth Development
The opening of Planet Skate is more than just a business venture; it represents a commitment to youth development. By establishing a safe and fun environment, Harris aims to help young people build social skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Such initiatives are crucial for fostering the next generation, harnessing their potential through community involvement.
### The Impact of Entrepreneurship on Community Growth
The success of businesses like Planet Skate shows the potential for local entrepreneurship to drive economic growth in Jacksonville. When residents invest in their communities, they not only create jobs but also boost the local economy. Supporting small businesses contributes to a thriving environment where innovation and collaboration flourish.
### Looking Ahead
As Planet Skate becomes a fixture in the Northside community, its future seems bright. The facility stands as a testament to the hard work of individuals like Terry Harris and the resilience of Jacksonville’s small-business landscape. Community leaders anticipate the potential ripple effects from such initiatives, encouraging further investments in local businesses to foster economic development and growth.
In conclusion, the reopening of Planet Skate signifies a renewed commitment to community well-being and historical preservation. As Jacksonville moves forward, the focus on supporting local entrepreneurs and creating spaces for community engagement remains paramount. Residents are encouraged to support such local ventures, ensuring a vibrant future for Jacksonville.
### FAQ Section
- What is Planet Skate?
- Planet Skate is a 40,000-square-foot entertainment facility in Jacksonville, Florida, offering a skating rink, arcade, and glow-in-the-dark mini-golf, aiming to provide a safe and engaging environment for families and youth.
- Who is Terry Harris?
- Terry Harris is a retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant who served 35 years in the military. He reopened the iconic Sk8 City skating rink, now known as Planet Skate, to provide a recreational space for Jacksonville’s Northside community.
- What was the original Sk8 City?
- The original Sk8 City, established in the 1970s, was a central hub for Jacksonville’s Northside community, offering a place for families and young people to connect and enjoy recreational activities.
- How has the community responded to Planet Skate?
- The reopening of Planet Skate has been met with enthusiasm from the community, with local leaders and residents expressing support for the initiative, recognizing its role in revitalizing the Northside area and providing a safe space for youth.
- What does the reopening of Planet Skate signify for Jacksonville?
- The reopening of Planet Skate signifies a commitment to preserving local history while providing modern amenities that cater to the needs of today’s youth, marking a significant milestone in Jacksonville’s efforts to revitalize the Northside area.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Facility Size | 40,000-square-foot entertainment space |
| Offerings | Skating rink, arcade, glow-in-the-dark mini-golf |
| Location | Jacksonville, Florida |
| Community Impact | Provides a safe and engaging environment for families and youth, revitalizing the Northside area |
| Historical Significance | Revives the legacy of the original Sk8 City from the 1970s |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
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