The DIY project was begun by skateboarders in the summer of 1990 by pouring concrete against Burnside's main wall, creating a vertical transition obstacle in the empty parking lot below the east-end of the Burnside bridge.

[2] The skateboarders found inspiration to do so because the area was covered and protected from Portland's rainy season, allowing the park's riders to skate all year long.

The second major obstacle built was a mini bowl pocket along the north-end support beam of the bridge.

Following these initial small obstacles, the founders of the DIY project struck a deal with nearby construction workers, employed by Ross Island Cement, building the I-84 on-ramp.

The construction of the apartment complex obstructed sunlight from the skatepark, causing Burnside to be much darker during the day.