JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville’s Northside community is experiencing a revival of roller skating and family entertainment thanks to retired Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Terry Harris.
Harris, a lifelong skater and serial entrepreneur, recently opened Planet Skate in the former K-Mart Plaza on Lem Turner Road, bringing back a beloved pastime and creating a safe, welcoming space for families.
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Harris grew up skating at the original Sk8 City rink on the Northside, a staple of the community for decades.
Inspired by his love for children and the need for positive outlets in the area, he decided after retiring from the Air National Guard to open Planet Skate.
“The community has suffered years with a food desert. I saw it as a family entertainment desert,” Harris said. “There’s nowhere for the kids to go and just have a good, fun time.”
Since its grand opening, Planet Skate has drawn strong community support, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Mayor Donna Deegan and District Councilman Reggie Gaffney, Jr.
The facility not only offers roller skating but also plans to host after-school programs, STEM activities, and mentoring for local youth.
Harris emphasized the importance of providing resources and opportunities for children to grow, learn and build confidence.
Planet Skate also creates jobs for teenagers in the neighborhood, many of whom get their first work experience there.
Harris sees the rink as more than a business. He calls it a beacon of hope and a catalyst for economic development in an area with many vacant properties.
He hopes other investors will follow his lead to bring more family-focused entertainment options to the Northside.
With a focus on safety, community engagement and sustainability, Planet Skate aims to be a lasting resource for Jacksonville families.
Harris’s vision is clear: “If I could change the name, it would be Skate Academy. It’s a learning tool to help facilitate economic development and give kids and families resources where they can go and help with homework and just have an outlet.”