Go out and play!

Not every student is able to participate in school sports programs, but studies tell us that outdoor play and exercise help not only with physical health, but creativity, teamwork, and other skills. This is an argument made in support of team sports. But not all students get picked for organized sports, or even want to try out for teams. How … Read More

What value, green space?

Studies have shown that parks and open space increase values for adjacent property by 20 percent. Open space is the number one consideration for small, hi-tech companies looking to relocate, because their highly educated work force is willing to sacrifice high income for high quality of life. Can Rapid City tap the economic growth potential of its parks and open … Read More

Friends presses for park and trail connections in land trade

The Hon. Sam Kooiker Mayor City of Rapid City 300 Sixth Street Rapid City, SD 57702 2 November 2012 Dear Mayor Kooiker, Thank you for asking Friends of Rapid City Parks to comment on the proposed land trade between the city and Dream Design International, Inc. to exchange acreage in the Wally Byam Property for acreage near the airport. We … Read More

Memorial Park Promenade first step on the path, not the final destination

Statement of Friends of Rapid City Parks to Rapid City Council, May 7, 2012. Friends was founded in 2005 to advocate for our parks.  We have more than 100 members and have mobilized up to 300 supporters on issues affecting the parks. Tonight we are speaking in support of the proposal by Destination Rapid City to create the Memorial Park … Read More

Be a Friend of Rapid City Parks

Dear Friend, I was riding my bike on the path that runs through the city last week, my mind reflecting on the wonderful revitalization of our downtown area and the preservation of our green spaces we have worked so hard to prioritize. I think you will agree with me that there is no place like Rapid City, and our outstanding … Read More

Assigning value to the priceless legacy of 1972

An internationally recognized expert on the economic value that parks bring to communities will speak at a public forum in Rapid City Thursday, April 26. The lecture begins at 7 p.m. in The Journey Museum Auditorium and is one of many public events leading up to the commemoration of the 40th Anniversary of the 1972 Flood in June. Friends of … Read More

Come see us at the Fat Tire Festival

Ride your bike, bring the kids! Friends will have a booth at the Fat Tire Festival featuring games, giveaways, puzzles and more. We’ll be in Founders Park near the big fish from 1-4 on Saturday and Sunday, May 28 & 29.  Enter a free drawing and win a tote full of Friends of Rapid City Parks gear.

Pedestrian & Bike Path Proposals Under Review

Rapid City’s growth management department and Alta Planning unveiled a master plan in mid-April to make bicycling and walking an integral part of transportation in Rapid City. The plan recommends 10 priority projects including signage, bike lanes and shared lanes, that could be done in the near future. It builds on existing trails and paths that run through the parks … Read More