A Community Gathering Space WRITTEN BY MAURA KELLER
Dating back to 1924, Soldiers Field Memorial Park has been a beacon for generations of Rochester residents who enjoyed the park’s expansive area. The American Legion was instrumental in securing 160 acres for the park, with the Legion’s primary goal to “provide play and recreational facilities for all citizens and children of the city, and to be a memorial to veterans of all wars.” Fast forward 100 years and Soldiers Field is getting a facelift of sorts, updating the recreational offerings and facilities that will keep families and individuals coming back for more.
The park’s swimming pool, built in 1936 has been a popular destination for generations of Rochester residents, and has been rebuilt over time. In addition, the golf course was the first development in the park. Initially, it was six, and then nine holes and was eventually extended to an 18- hole course. As with any facility established nearly 100 years ago, it was evident that Soldiers Field needed to be updated to meet the needs and interests of 21st-century families. Revamping the memorial park has been a long-term endeavor. Over the last several years, the City of
Rochester has reexamined and solidified the long-term (10+ year) vision for the Soldiers Field Memorial Park, while identifying short- and long-term strategies to reach that vision.
Paul Widman, Director of Parks and Recreation at the City of
Rochester, explains that the Phase 1 improvement of Soldiers Field include
the aquatics facility, southwest trail connection, playground
improvements including a nature play area, additional picnic shelter, and basketball courts.
PARK IMPROVEMENT INCLUDES
12 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — JUNE 2024
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online