Roseville secures $96K for John Rose Oval scoreboard replacement

During the recent Roseville City Council meeting held on March 17, 2025, significant discussions centered around community support for a vital infrastructure project: the replacement of the scoreboard at the John Rose Minnesota Oval. This project is crucial for enhancing the experience of various user groups that utilize the facility for events and activities.

City staff highlighted the generous donations received from local organizations, which will greatly exceed the city's initial budget for the scoreboard. The Friends of the Oval Foundation pledged $40,000, enabling the city to upgrade to a higher definition and larger scoreboard than originally planned. This foundation plays a key role in supporting activities at the Oval, contributing not only to capital projects but also to the annual operating budget.

Additionally, the Midway Speed Skating Club, one of the largest speed skating clubs in the United States and a major ice renter at the Oval, contributed $56,000 to the project. Their donation reflects the club's commitment to improving their operations and enhancing the experience for both participants and spectators during larger events.

In total, the donations amount to $96,000, which will benefit a wide range of activities at the Oval, including bandy hockey, public skating, and summer programs. The improvements are expected to create a better overall experience for the community, including those attending summer movie nights.

The council expressed gratitude for the contributions and recommended the acceptance of the donations, underscoring the importance of community involvement in local projects. The meeting concluded without public comments on the matter, indicating strong support for the initiative among council members and the community.