The City of Rochester is advancing the first phase of projects from the 2023 Silver Lake Master Plan. These enhancements aim to revitalize Silver Lake Park with new recreational facilities and community spaces. Key phase one projects include a modernized aquatics area, new playground, indigenous gathering area, skate park expansion, basketball court, and shelter renovations. These improvements total approximately $9.7 million, primarily funded through the 2020 Park Referendum, City Council allocations, and grants.
Artist rending of the Silver Lake Park pool and splash pad.
Artist rending of the Silver Lake Park skatepark.
Artist rending of the Silver Lake Park playground.
Artist renderings
Location Map
840 7th Street NE, Rochester, MN 55906
Updates
Aquatics Area: Demolition of the existing bathhouse and pool began in fall 2024. Construction resumes in spring 2025, with completion expected for the 2026 summer season.
West Playground: Removal starts in late March 2025, with new equipment and sidewalks installed by July.
Indigenous Gathering Area: Development includes natural stone seating and native plantings, with $100K in allocated funding.
Other Improvements: Renovations include restroom updates, a new basketball court, and a skate park expansion with additional grant funding being pursued.
Timeline
Fall 2024: Demolition of existing aquatics facilities begins.
Spring 2025: Aquatics construction resumes; playground removal and installation begin.
Summer 2025: Construction continues on multiple projects.
July 2025: Expected completion of the west playground.
2026: Grand opening of the new aquatics area and additional park enhancements.
Project Cost & Funding
Total Phase One Budget: $9.7 million
Funding Sources:
2020 Park Referendum
City Council authorized funds
Grants (e.g., $350K Outdoor Recreation Grant for the playground, additional grants for the skate park expansion)
Project Costs:
Aquatics Area: $5.5M
Playground: $700K ($350K from grants)
Indigenous Gathering Area: $100K
Restroom Renovations: $200K
Basketball Court: $150K
Skate Park Expansion: $1.4M (with grant applications pending)
Public Engagement
The City has collaborated with community groups such as the Greater Rochester Area Dakota Supporters and Full Circle Indigenous Planning to ensure inclusive and meaningful enhancements. Extensive community engagement during the master planning process helped shape the park’s vision and priorities, guiding phase one projects. Input was gathered through surveys, social media tools, and stakeholder meetings. Additional engagement with swim clubs, accessibility advocates, and City staff refined plans for the aquatics area, while collaboration with the skateboard community influenced the skate park expansion. Feedback from accessibility advocates and youth-focused groups also helped shape the west playground area. Resident involvement remains essential, and updates will continue throughout the project.
