Get a graphic perspective on what happened at this site in 1972 by checking the height of the blue tape on the soccer field fencing.
As we approach the anniversary of the 1972 Black Hills Flood, we wonder where things stand on the proposal to undo all the long awaited and fought-over storm water improvements in West Memorial Park and replace that open green space along surging Rapid Creek with surplus military equipment?
The proposed park was tacked on to the end of the Vision Fund process in February, without any public dialog or debate. And there hasn’t been a peep about it since.
In an op ed piece in the Rapid City Journal at the time , Friends of Rapid City Parks board president Chris Stover had this to say about the proposal to install large structures and equipment in the greenway.
“Friends of Rapid City Parks respectfully opposes the plan, as proposed, for Mayor Allender’s Military Appreciation Park within Memorial Park. In 1972, homes and businesses lined Rapid Creek. When the flood waters came, no mercy was shown to those homes, businesses and people.
“The greenway is not only the flood-zone for Rapid Creek; it, too, is a memorial to all who lost their lives that night in June. The aftermath of that disaster led to tough, solid leadership decisions by Mayor Barnett and others. The result? Parks and undeveloped open space that we enjoy today.”
Read more here about the plans for West Memorial Park.