Spots: Downtown Manhattan — Financial District

Spot: C.I.A. is one of the most frequently-sessioned ledges in Lower Manhattan. It is a 30-foot long ascending granite ledge running alongside a moderate hill. The ledge starts out at about a foot-and-a-half in height and grows to be around three feet high. The ledge is made out of pretty much the best material that exists for ledges. If all ledges were made out of this sort of granite/marble, the world would be a better place and everyone would backside tailslide like Torey Pudwill. It’s waxed well, both for grinds and slides, but you might need to put another coat of wax on if you’re looking to grind the entire thing. It’s frontside for regular footed skaters, and backside for goofy footers. There is also a set of really thin round rails here, one running down a four stair and another down a five, both with ample runway and landing room.

Bust: If you stay around the ledge and the first set of rails, it’s really random in regards to how quick you’re going to get kicked out. Typically, you should get at least 15-25 minutes before they kick you out, if not more. But they will invariably spot you at some point. If you skate the rails right in front of the security window, you’re not getting more than three tries. The spot is very dark at nighttime, so count on having a camera light if you are trying to film. During the daytime on weekdays is also problematic because people typically sit on the ledge.

Location: Maiden Lane and William Street. Take the 2 or 3 train to Fulton Street, skate west one block on Fulton, make a left on William Street and skate south for three blocks. The spot is on the west side of the street, across from the New School dorms.

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