The Line Action Sports Park

smART Kinston was recently awarded the redevelopment contract for the former Glen Raven Mill site located in the Mitchelltown Arts & Cultural District. This 12-acre property includes a historic textile manufacturing facility, additional buildings, and vast grounds. The first phase of this project is The Line Action Sports Park — because when pro BMXer Ryan Nyquist gifts your town some ramps, you figure out how to put ‘em to use.

WHY THE LINE?

Communities today face a growing need for accessible, safe recreation spaces that engage youth in positive activities. Many young people lack outlets outside of school, particularly those who are not drawn to traditional team sports. Action sports continue to grow nationwide, but safe, well-maintained facilities remain scarce, especially in underserved or rural areas.

This project will transform an underused facility into a safe, accessible, and community-centered space where youth can develop physical skills, confidence, discipline, and creativity.

What to look forward to

Still in its construction phase, The Line will consist of a 20,000 sq. ft. indoor action sports course. Programming will include:

• Open Ride Sessions: Daily public access for youth and families

• Beginner Clinics: Entry-level instruction focusing on safety & fundamentals

• Youth Development Program: Leadership, teamwork, fitness, and goal setting

• School Partnerships: Phys ed curriculum integration and tutoring opportunities

• Local & Regional Competitions: Events to engage the community and promote positive youth activities

Join our mailing list below to be informed of project progress, upcoming volunteer opportunities, or be one of the first to come ride.

Interested in making a tax-deductible donation to this project?

Founder & Project Director Kevin Albritton has been riding since 1998. BMX was more than a passion. It became an opportunity to travel the country, gave him focus, and built skills including networking and perseverance. BMX provided early opportunities to explore mechanical aptitude and led to his career as a parts engineer and mechanic. He came of age during the golden era of Greenville’s Pro Town BMX scene. His resume includes pro-level contests, performances for King BMX’s NBA & NFL halftime shows, and he made multiple appearances on Stephen Baldwin’s “Livin’ It” programs; He is still riding today. 

Since 2017, Kevin has been campaigning for this type of facility, with hopes of increasing tourism to the area so visitors can explore and experience the greatness that Kinston has to offer. In true serendipitousness, he grew up riding the very streets that surround The Line’s facility. 

One can argue that the test version of this project was the ramps his parents gave permission to build in their backyard in the mid-2000s.

With this project, he hopes to actualize a space for not only his two children to grow as riders, but to mentor other Kinston youth, as well.