Leadership Greater Rochester
Community Impact Project
At the Dec. 19th Chamber Board of Directors' Meeting, the Leadership Greater Rochester (LGR) Class of 2008 announced its community impact project: Revitalization of Graham Park (aka The Olmsted County Fairgrounds).
The 2008 LGR class is comprised of 40 emerging leaders who represent public, private and non-profit organizations. Despite our diverse backgrounds, we all believe Rochester must continue to grow culturally and economically to meet the needs of the whole community.
We looked at many different projects, and the decision was difficult. Revitalizing Graham Park will provide a safe, inviting, year-round social gathering place for all of Rochester's citizens. At the same time, it will improve the appearance of the "Gateway to Rochester" from the south making our community more attractive as a place to live, work and do business.
In the early 1900's, Dr. Christopher Graham donated the land for Graham Park intending that it be used as the permanent site for the Olmsted County Fair and as an airfield. He also wanted the land to be used for agricultural and school fairs, exhibits and meetings, etc. and to increase student awareness of agricultural, aviation and related career opportunities (DEED 1919). Dr. Graham's experience growing up on a farm led him to want to support agriculture, scientific development and farming as a career choice for young people.
The class will incorporate Dr. Graham's vision and collaborate with all stakeholders to design a space that works for the entire community. A master plan for Graham Park will be created that will focus on increasing the Park's usefulness and value for current and future users of the space, both in and out of Olmsted County.
Please watch for updates on the Web site or future Chamber Advantage newsletters. The LGR Class of 2008 appreciates your support.
In the Media
- Print
Comments to be taken on Olmsted Fairgrounds' future (Post-Bulletin)
Group plans for future of Olmsted County Fairgrounds (Post-Bulletin)
Editorial: Fairgrounds facelift would fulfill park's potential (Post-Bulletin)
Group re-imagines Olmsted fairgrounds (Post-Bulletin)
On paper, 'Fairgrounds' becomes Graham Park (Post-Bulletin)
Thank You Ad to Rochester Design Society (Post-Bulletin)
LGR Class Announces Community Impact Project (Jan. Chamber Advantage)
Chamber Advantage Cover & Inside Cover story (March Chamber Advantage)
Conceptual Master Plan for Graham Park (April Chamber Advantage)
Gone to Seed in Corny Way (Chicago-Sun Times)
- Television
Preparing for a New Park (KTTC)
- Radio
Chamber Chat Show (KROC AM 1340)
Archives
2006-2007 Class Project