By Ben Johnston Story Ideas? Email ben@roseaustar.com
As the Minnesota spring keeps teasing us with thoughts of warm summer days, the Roseau Parks and Recreation department gears up for the summer season.
South Riverview Park has already been seeing a lot of after-school activity, as kids make their way to the skate park that was added next to the city splash park last year. The parks department would like to remind those visiting the skate park that using skateboards, rollerblades and scooters on the splash park causes damage that makes it difficult to maintain the upkeep of the parks and to please be respectful.
Site of future basketball court.
South Riverview Park will also see a new addition this summer. A full size, outdoor basketball court with new hoops will be added along 2nd St. SE, on the south end of the park.
The basketball court is not the only new addition you’ll see around the parks this summer. New exercise equipment will be placed along the bike and walking path inside the entrance of the City Park.
Parks and Recreation Director Katy Spoden expects those additions to take place yet this spring.
“We just need to get the slabs done for the basketball court and out at City Park for the fitness equipment and then we can install those components,” said Spoden.
The fitness equipment will include instructions for power and agility exercises as well as core and balance workouts. This equipment may be just a first step in the parks offerings.
“If it goes well, we can add to what we put out there or add other destinations and just see how it goes,” said Spoden.
Site of future bathrooms.
Another new addition to watch for this summer is over at Riverview Park, where construction began last fall for the installation of a new restroom. This will be a welcome addition for those who frequent the popular concerts at the Gazebo and the Memorial park over the summer.
The Parks and Recreation Department is also planning its second annual Party at the Park for June 26th. This will be the official summer kickoff and kayak launch party. Spoden agrees that the party seems like a long ways away.
“We’re waiting for the water to warm up just a little bit, so that’s why it’s later in the month,” Spoden said.
Along with the kayak launch, there will be food, bike events and the second annual team EPIC color run. Team EPIC focuses on keeping our youth safe, healthy and drug, alcohol and tobacco free by promoting healthy alternatives and activities throughout the year.More information about the second annual Party at the Park event and activities planned will be available as it gets closer.
A new online registration and payment system will be available for residents to host their own events — also making it easier to enroll in activities like baseball and soccer. Facility rentals will also become easier for residents with family who enjoy camping or are looking to host any event at the park or City Center. The new system will allow them to reserve and pay for your space all online.
Here’s to a long awaited summer. We’ll see you out in the parks!
Last modified: 05/04/2019
