10/11/2026
So, once again, we have something that is nostalgic but holds no true historical value, architectural significance, or uniqueness to Red Deer.
Unless you have lived here your entire life, which most taxpayers have not, this project means nothing to the population as a whole, yet a council member has already said we need to bring it back. That means spending taxpayer money on frivolous things again.
It is not as if they are paying to create a new park; they are just paying for a play structure. Given modern changes in safety standards, it probably will not look anything like the original without a massive financial investment. How much concrete can we pour into this project?
With $11 million needed to fix a bridge (aka Homeless Highway) and pave a park under, enough money has been spent on nostalgia for now.
If people want this project, corporate sponsorship and private donations should fund it, not taxpayer money.
-K
Bring back the rocket!!!... but who pays for it? 🚀
The Rocket Rebirth Project certainly got people talking. Here’s what I took from your comments.
It isn’t a surprise that so many want to see it return. There were childhood stories, memories of visiting Red Deer, and people wanting their kids and grandkids to have a turn.
But there were practical questions, too:
• Where should it go, and how would it be kept clean and looked after?
• Should taxpayers fund another playground when budgets are already under pressure?
• Could the Kinsmen, another service club, local businesses or a community fundraiser help pay for it?
• Can a modern version still be fun? Several of you wanted the slide higher up.
Those questions deserve to be part of the conversation.
What would it mean for the capital budget?
The City’s proposed 2027 capital budget is approximately $80.2 million, with Council deliberations scheduled for October 13*
A new rocket playground would need a budget covering more than the equipment: design, site preparation, installation and playground surfacing would also need to be included.
The effect on City finances would depend on the full cost and where the money comes from. Donations and grants could reduce the City’s contribution. Using reserves would draw on money available for other priorities. Redirecting an existing budget would mean identifying what gets reduced or delayed.
After it opens, inspections, cleaning, maintenance, repairs and eventual replacement would still need a funding plan.
I’d want to see the full cost and funding proposal before drawing conclusions about the impact on taxes.
Could we raise money for it?
I think that’s worth exploring, and there’s a local example.
For the first phase of West Park Gardens, the community association reported $24,000 in local fundraising, $11,000 from association funds and a $35,000 provincial grant: $70,000 altogether.
That doesn’t tell us what a rocket would cost, but it shows how community contributions and grant funding can work together.
A rocket campaign would need a clear plan, a realistic fundraising target, an organization to lead it, and agreement with the City. Several of you suggested service-club involvement. That seems like a conversation worth having.
My two cents.
I love this idea, and I want to see it happen. I think we can approach it responsibly, with local groups, sponsors and the community rallying to get it done.
The conversation needs to start somewhere. I’d like to see the City put the idea out there and say, in effect: we want to make this happen, but we can’t put another project on taxpayers right now. How can we work together as a community to figure it out?
Give people something concrete to get behind: a plan, a price and a way to help.
If there’s a project that could rekindle some community spirit, I think this is one.
So yes, let’s ask the questions. Let’s understand the costs. And let’s see what we can actually do together to bring it back.
Let’s build up Red Deer together.
Would you be more supportive if donations and sponsorships covered most (or all) of the construction cost?
And if there were an approved plan and a transparent fundraiser, would you consider contributing or helping organize it? 👇
