PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Trinity Repertory Co. is looking to shut down a portion of Adrian Hall Way to expand its facility, but skateboarders say it’s going to infringe on the city’s only skate park.

The city held a public hearing Thursday night to discuss the proposal, that would permanently shut down the area to cars and expand for a new elevator, stairs and a ramp into the theater.

A group known as Friends of Adrian Hall has been voicing their concerns since the proposal came to fruition. They submitted a petition to the city council with more than 500 signatures who are concerned the plan will encroach on the city’s only downtown skate park.

To make up for the reduced space, the plan proposes adding some new space to the skate park near Fountain Street. During the meeting, the council asked questions about the park being reduced by half its size.

Executive Director of Trinity Rep Katie Liberman said the expansion could benefit the park with an additional 1300 square feet, but those who go to the park say that area isn’t usable.

The city’s park department would be responsible for the actual park redesign. They said during the meeting that they have a loan budget of around $375,000 for the skate park expansion.

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