Located in the heart of downtown Rochester, South Street Skateshop has been the home of skateboarding culture and creative spirit for over 20 years. Founded by Von and Linda Gallaher, the couple has built more than just a business — they’ve cultivated a beautiful community of skaters, artists, and creatives of all ages. After two decades of dedication, the Gallahers are now realizing their long-held dream: the construction of a state-of-the-art outdoor skate park.
Their journey first began in 2005 when the Gallahers opened the original South Street Skatepark. Driven by a desire to have a unique space for their own kids and neighborhood kids alike, they aimed to create a skate park where local kids could come together, learn new skills, and simply enjoy being kids. As the park grew in popularity, it eventually outgrew its original location. In 2009, the couple relocated to Main Street, but their dream didn’t stop there. When the original skate park closed, they continued to envision a place where kids could continue to fall in love with the skateboard culture, and have it be supported by their local community.
The creation of the park, however, hasn't been easy. It’s taken 12 years of planning, hard work, and perseverance to get to this point. Von and Linda faced numerous challenges, including securing funding, location, and addressing logistical hurdles. But their unwavering commitment to the local youth, the promises they made to create an even better park, and love for skateboarding only fueled their determination.
Now, after years of careful planning and support from their local community, the outdoor skate park is finally on the horizon. To bring their vision to life, the Gallahers have partnered with Spohn Ranch, a skate park construction company based in California, and known for their exceptional craftsmanship. Spohn Ranch, alongside the Gallahers and the community, will create a park that will cater to skaters of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals, and will serve as an exciting addition to the neighborhood.
Beyond the skate park, the Gallahers have consistently worked to foster creativity and inclusivity within the community. One of their most beloved initiatives is the annual Deck Art Competition, which is celebrating its 15th year. What began as a small collaboration with a local gallery has since grown into a major event, now run by the Downtown Development Authority. Each year, local artists are invited to create unique designs on blank skateboards, and the community votes for their favorites. The winning designs are displayed for all to see inside of local businesses, with many artists even selling their decks with 100% of the profits going right back to them. The competition has become a highly anticipated event, with over 450 decks showcased, offering local artists an opportunity to showcase their work while promoting skateboarding culture.
The success of the Deck Art Competition, coupled with the soon-to-be-opened skate park, exemplifies the Gallahers’ ongoing commitment to supporting the next generation of skaters and creatives. Their vision for South Street has always been about creating a space where kids can stay active, express themselves, and connect with like-minded individuals. Their ideology: “the ordinary is passé, hence distinctiveness separates the individual from the minion”.
As the Gallahers look toward the opening of the skate park later this year, they’re filled with pride, knowing their dream is finally coming true. The skate park will not only provide a much-needed space for local youth to practice their skills but also stand as a testament to the power of community support. It will be a place where kids can feel safe, welcome, and empowered to pursue their passions.
The legacy of South Street Skateshop is built on a foundation of love for skateboarding, community, and creativity. From the shop to the Deck Art Competition and the upcoming skate park, Von and Linda Gallaher continue to inspire and uplift the people of Rochester. "Rochester is our home and the city that we love. We are deeply invested in the well-being of Rochester and the surrounding communities; and we want to continue to see this area thrive. Serving Rochester has provided us with a sense of purpose and belonging. In addition, it’s gratifying to know that we are contributing to the economic and social well-being of families in our community."
Their dream is becoming a reality, and the future of the city’s skateboarding scene has never looked more cool.
Deck art is currently open for registration through April 11th. Artwork is due April 14 - April 25 to the Rochester DDA’s Downtown Collaboration Studio (431 S. Main Street). Artists will find their deck art location on May 15 & 16, and display runs through May 23rd.
South Street is located at: 410 South Main Street Rochester, MI 48307. They can be reached at 248-651-0555 or by visiting https://www.southstreetonmain.com.
(A little note to our readers...Von and Linda are currently in their third house on the same block in Rochester. Needless to say, they really love this little town.)