Our Legacy, Our Future

RICHFIELD’S PARKS AND REC INVESTMENT PLAN

Reinvesting in Richfield Parks and Recreation

Richfield residents recognize that the city’s parks and recreation system helps make the city a special place to live, work and play. That is why the city is putting forward an $80 million investment plan to address critical upgrades and infrastructure issues at the Richfield Community Center, Wood Lake Nature Center and Veterans Park.

Plan Overview

Under this plan, the city would invest in parks and recreation opportunities and community spaces and activities at three major destinations in our city. The proposed plan includes:

  • New Richfield Community Center
    The city’s aging community center would be replaced with a larger building that would provide multipurpose spaces to support more activities and programs for residents of all ages.

  •  Wood Lake Nature Center 
    A new educational facility would replace the current center
    to provide a place for residents and visitors to gather and reconnect with nature.  

  • Veterans Park Complex
    Several serious issues would be addressed, including major repairs to the swimming pool and ice arena, upgrades to
    trails and the pavilion and additional maintenance throughout the park.

Paying for the Projects

The 2023 state legislature authorized the city to seek voter approval for a $65 million half-percent local sales tax this November. If approved, the sales tax would be in place for up to 20 years or when the funds to cover the costs of the projects, plus interest and bond issuance expenses, whichever comes first. The city council concluded that a sales tax was the best option because the cost of the projects is spread among residents and nonresidents who often use Richfield’s parks and other public services. 

Additionally, $12 million in state bonding funds and $3 million in federal funds have been awarded to support the pre-design and construction of a new educational facility at Wood Lake Nature Center.

Richfield residents will only be responsible for about 1/3 of the total cost of the projects when taking into account nonresident contributions through the local sales tax, plus state and federal funding sources.

Your Voice Matters!

Richfield residents helped shape this plan through various surveys, meetings and other engagement opportunities and will have the final say by voting on or before November 5, 2024.


Residents are also encouraged to provide feedback on the plan and ask questions utilizing our connect form.