fbpx
Rochester Local

Rochester MN is Finally Getting a Splash Pad

Rendering of potential Lincolnshire Splash Pad. This design is conceptual only.

It’s true. It’s finally happening.

A splash pad is the #1 requested amenity amongst Rochester families. For those who might not be familiar with the term, a splash pad is a popular type of water park used for water play that has little to no standing water.  This eliminates the need for lifeguards. Currently, Rochester MN does not have a splash pad.  Today, the Rochester Parks Foundation is launching a campaign to raise the final funds needed to make the splash pad a reality for next summer.  We have ALL the details for you below including how you can be involved in the final push to make the splash pad a reality by summer 2022.

example of a splash pad

The Background

The Rochester Parks and Recreation department of Rochester MN had originally planned for the splash pad construction to begin this past spring. Right before construction was to start, a restroom facility was mandated by the state of Minnesota costing the project an additional $100,000. Shortly after, Covid-19 arrived and along with it budget cuts for Rochester Parks and Recreation.  This created budget restrictions and left the project $100,000 short of the funds needed to complete the splash pad.

Where Will It Be Located?

The splash is designed to be placed at Lincolnshire park.  This will be the very first of this type of water park in the city of Rochester MN.

What’s Next?

Under the guidance of Rochester MN Parks and Recreation Director Paul Widman, The Rochester Parks Foundation board created a fundraising campaign to raise $100,000 to *ensure* that the splash pad would be open for summer 2022 and families would not need to wait another summer. The Rochester Parks Foundation mission is to advocate for the Rochester, Minnesota parks, trails, and recreational activities by encouraging community involvement and volunteer participation. The foundation also promotes collaboration and partnerships with the Rochester Parks system and grows new funding to enhance our community parks. The Rochester Parks Foundation is an independent, donor-supported 501c3 nonprofit organization.

What’s the Progress Towards the Goal?

The Rochester Parks Foundation has already raised nearly $20,000 in match commitments from community partners.  The first is a $12,000 generous pledge from the Carl and Verna Schmidt Foundation.  When that first $12,000 is matched in community donations, the Rochester Parks Foundation has another pledge that with community match support will push the fundraising goal closer to $40,000. The Foundation is also meeting with community leaders and pursuing community, business, and organization-based donations. “We are actively seeking other generous community partners who want to see the quality of life improved in Rochester and be known as part of this long-awaited park feature. All donations are tax deductible,” said board President Andy Masterpole.

Why A Splash Pad is Important

This year, all local public swimming pools were closed due to Covid-19.  Additionally, the newly opened beach as Cascade Lake has closed due to sanitation reasons.  A splash pad affords families who are facing recent or ongoing financial stressors to enjoy a place to cool off without a fee.  A splash pad creates an equitable opportunity for all children to enjoy a summer splashing in the water: regardless of whether they can afford the cost of entry or a membership to a pool.

A Challenge to Rochester Mom Readers

“If every person in Rochester gave $1, we would have a splash pad,” said Foundation Board President Andy Masterpole. “But we know it’s not that simple, so we are going to need $1 from a few and a bit more than that from a lot more.” To that extent, Rochester Mom is pledging a dollar-for-dollar donation up to $1500 matching the donations of Rochester Mom readers. Can you give a dollar?  We’ll match it and make it $2. Can you give $20? We’ll match it $40.

Let’s face it: moms in this city GET STUFF DONE.  We are MORE than ready for a splash pad.  Friends…let’s make it happen.

YES!  Let’s get going!

If you’re ready to make a donation, please visit www.rochestersplash.org. The Rochester Parks Foundation is pleased to work with another local nonprofit, 4giving, to use their excellent fundraising platform.   Use the camera on your phone to capture the QR Code below to take you directly to www.rochestersplash.org.  Please share this information widely!

Related posts

10 Rochester Area Open Mics for Music and Comedy

John Sievers

Call for Artists – Artist Directory

Rochester Local

Rochester MN Guide to Bakeries: Where to Get Cakes, Cookies, Cupcakes, Pastries, Donuts and More!

Rochester Local