With the first full season post-improvements drawing to a close, the facilities at Soldiers Field Memorial Park enjoyed a significant increase in attendance. Parkgoers enjoyed the new aquatics center, inclusive playground and basketball courts, all decorated with eye-catching public artwork.
Paul Widman, Rochester Director of Parks & Recreation, remarked on the improvements to Soldiers Field saying, “These changes at Soldiers Field Park represent a significant improvement in the quality of life for all residents, providing enhanced recreational spaces that welcome the entire community. The upgrades make the park more accessible and inclusive.”
Together with federal funding and state grants, the City of Rochester brought these investments to life at Soldiers Field, with the input of Destination Medical Center and the Rochester community. The System Wide Parks and Recreation Master Plan, developed and approved in 2016, laid the foundation for the changes taking place.
“DMC is proud to see the renovations to Soldiers Field completed,” said Patrick Seeb, DMC Economic Development Agency Executive Director. “It was important to us to help the City of Rochester bring this project to life in partnership with the Rochester community.”
As we look ahead to the next season, here is what visitors to the park can look forward to.
Inclusive playground and new basketball courts
Two new and improved play areas have been added at Soldiers Field. At the new Nature Play area, kids can enjoy colorful and interactive structures placed thoughtfully among native plants and trees. Head to the east side of the park, the Roy Sutherland Playground expansion added multiple new play structures, as well as accessible swings. Nearby, two brand-new lighted basketball courts have also been installed and are ready for play. The new basketball courts have become a popular amenity at Soldiers Field, and as an inclusive sport, its renovation was a priority for DMC.
A thoughtfully designed Aquatics Center
With pools for all ages and skill levels, the Soldiers Field Aquatics Center is a great place to spend a summer day with family and friends. The newly completed aquatics area opened for the season
in 2024. It features a lazy river, three waterslides, a fully renovated bathhouse, 50-meter lap pool, and both a shallow pool and splash pad. Through the input of the community co- designers, the new bathhouse’s design features gender-neutral restrooms and changing facilities to foster a safe and inclusive space for all. New activities and swim clubs rolled out this season as well, so keep an eye on the aquatics center’s Facebook page for fun new programs to come in 2025.
Engaging with local artists
The project incorporates the work of three local artists (Mary Beth Magyar, Sophia Chai and Kelly Hutchinson) into various aspects of the park. Magyar’s mosaic whale design is prominently featured at the entrance to the new pool area. Chai’s Beckoning consists of four pedestrian lights that gradually dim up and down together as if they are breathing. Hutchinson’s interactive nest and butterfly designs are featured in the Nature Play area.
Other amenities and community favorites are still open and accessible
Other amenities at Soldiers Field, including the golf course and Veterans Memorial, have remained open during the renovations. While you are enjoying the park, don’t forget to stop by local favorite Townies Grill’d Philly Subs and More for a bite to eat.
To learn more about the improvements at Soldiers Field, visit the official page here.