The City of Rochester received a grant for the new splash pad that hoped to be ready for action by the spring of 2022.

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The City of Rochester Receives $195,000 Grant For New Splash Pad

According to a news release from the city, the $195,000 grant will support the new splash pad that will be a free, fun amenity in Lincolnshire Park. The grant was administered by the Minnesota DNR.

Rochester Parks and Recreation Director Paul Widman said the funds will allow the city to save 'hundreds of thousands of gallons of water each year because of a recirculating system that the grant allows the city to purchase.

“We are very excited to have received this grant from the DNR. These funds will allow the City of Rochester to save hundreds of thousands of gallons of water each year by employing a recirculating type system," Widman said. "It also allows for better control of the play elements for enhanced user experience. Finally, the grant dollars provide for a more fully accessible facility by adding paved walking/biking trails through the park.”

City Receives Splash Pad Feedback From Over 700 Community Members

The City of Rochester released a survey in March of 2021 for community members to provide feedback on the first splash pad, and in total over 740 community members responded to the survey. 

Key findings included:

  • Over 85% of respondents stated that they would use the splash pad
  • A request was made that buttons are the height of a wheelchair and other features be wheelchair accessible
  • Close parking for those with disabilities
  • The largest age group respondents stated they would take to the splash pad are 3-5 year olds
  • Community members shared that they anticipate frequenting the splash pad a few times a month, with Saturday being the day 76% of respondents stated they would be there
  • 85% of respondents desire shade elements outside of the splash pad area and 82% are seeking recycling and trash receptacles

This splash pad will be the first in Rochester, and the Rochester Parks Foundation has been vital in helping raise donations to support the project. The splash pad, along with all of its aquatic play elements, and the park's updated trails, is hoped to be completed in the spring of 2022.

Looking For More Summer Fun In 2021?

There are still a TON of great events and festivals lined up for 2021. We have our Ultimate Summer Fun Guide to 2021 below to help you and your family plan ou the rest of your summer.

The Ultimate 2021 Summer-Fun Guide For Southeast Minnesota

After the bummer summer that was 2020, you and the family are sure to be searching for plenty of fun events that will get you outside and enjoying the Minnesota summer sun!

Below you will find The Ultimate 2021 Summer-Fun Guide for Southeast Minnesota! All of the biggest events that our area has to offer. If we missed one, let us know on our app today!

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