KIMT

By Mike Bunge

ROCHESTER, Minn. – A $1.5 million federal grant is going toward improvements at Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park.

The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) funding from the National Park Service is being awarded to the City of Rochester and its Parks & Recreation Department.

“We are grateful for the continued support and welcome this exciting news about the federal grant. This grant will provide the much-needed improvements to one of Rochester’s oldest and highly utilized parks, particularly by underrepresented communities. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park has been and will continue to be a gathering space for robust community events, cultural gatherings, social meetups and a hub for health, wellness and belonging.”

The $1.52 million grant contributes to a $3 million project.  This was the only award given to a Minnesota community in this round of funding and is one of the 54 total awards granted across 24 states.    

“Thank you to the team of partners across the community and City departments that worked to create a successful grant application that reflects the community’s vision for this park,” says Paul Widman, Director of Parks & Recreation.  “I am looking forward to re-engaging with our residents as we move the vision for this treasured space into a reality that park users of all ages and interests can enjoy.”

Planned improvements at MLK Park include: 

Resurfacing of basketball courts;

Installation of accessible playground equipment;

Development of a splash pad;

Building of a large picnic shelter;

Expansion of the community garden;

Construction of a new restroom;

New lighting at the basketball courts;

Dropping of electrical connections in a plaza area where food trucks can park; and Introduction of WiFi services.

“Public parks not only provide a place for recreation and relaxation, but they also strengthen our sense of community," says U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar.  "This federal grant will upgrade Rochester’s Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park with improved greenspace, sports areas, and facilities so residents can take full advantage of the park’s amenities.”

The next steps of the project will include the development of a project timeline. This will include additional community engagement activities and efforts. A construction timeline and schedule will also be developed and future impacts to the park during construction will be shared, in advance, with the community.

“Everyone should have access to safe outdoor spaces and recreational opportunities,” says U.S. Senator Tina Smith.  “Thanks to the Biden-Harris administration, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park in Rochester is getting a grant to make the park safer and more accessible for the community. I am glad to see land conversation funds at work in Minnesota.”