City of Rochester, MN Government

11/02/2026

The Silver Lake Project will make it easier and safer to walk, bike and run around the lake.

A new trail along the north shore will connect East Silver Lake Drive to the existing trail west of the bridge. The path will go under the bridge, so people won’t need to cross the street.

The project will also connect to the larger riverfront trail system and prepare for a future pedestrian bridge across the lake.

Learn more about the Silver Lake Project: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/collections/61ce2d6bcd2442c1a3960b060695f98d

10/31/2026

Winter Parking Rules Start Tomorrow!

Rochester's winter parking rules take effect Sunday, November 1, at 2 a.m.

If you're parking on the street tonight, make sure your vehicle is on the ODD-numbered side of the street before 2 a.m. to comply with the new regulations.

Remember: ODD dates = ODD side. EVEN dates = EVEN side.

Winter parking restrictions apply daily from 2 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Learn more: rochestermn.gov/winter

10/30/2026

Important Notice for Rochester Residents: Winter Parking Regulations ️

Effective November 1st at 2 a.m.

Park on the even side of the street on even dates
Park on the odd side of the street on odd dates

Seasonal parking supports effective snow removal and keeps streets clear throughout the winter months.

For comprehensive details on winter parking rules, please visit rochestermn.gov/winter

10/30/2026

Want to make a difference in Rochester? Explore volunteer opportunities on City boards and commissions and help shape our community's future! Apply by November 11 for priority consideration for current openings. Learn more in the post below!

The City of Rochester is seeking community members interested in serving on City boards and commissions. These volunteer opportunities offer residents a chance to share their perspectives, contribute to local decision-making, and help shape the future of our community.

Current openings include:

• Citizens Advisory on Transit
• Music Board (Wards 1, 2, 4, or 6)
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Commission
• Public Utility Board
• Sustainability and Resiliency Commission
• Zoning Board of Appeals

Applications are accepted year-round, but apply by November 11, 2026, for priority consideration for current vacancies.

Learn more about each opportunity and apply: https://www.rochestermn.gov/news/posts/city-of-rochester-seeking-applicants-for-boards-and-commissions/

10/30/2026

Check out the latest progress recap and what's ahead from our LINK BRT construction partner, Elcor!

10/28/2026

Explore the Future of Sixth Avenue West

The City of Rochester invites community members to attend one of two upcoming open houses for the Reimagine Sixth Avenue West project.

Learn about proposed improvements designed to create a safer, greener, and more welcoming corridor for pedestrians, cyclists, transit users, and drivers. Attendees will have the opportunity to preview the proposed street design, explore planned amenities and landscaping, and learn about construction timelines and potential impacts.

Open House Details:

• In Person: Tuesday, November 17 | 4–6 p.m.
Spyhouse Coffee Roasters, 602 Second St. SW

• Virtual: Wednesday, November 18 | 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Via Microsoft Teams

Find more information at https://www.rochestermn.gov/news/posts/city-of-rochester-to-host-open-houses-for-reimagine-sixth-avenue-w-project/

*Design details are being developed and are subject to change.

10/28/2026

Your perspective matters in shaping Rochester’s future.

On November 30, the City of Rochester is bringing residents and elected officials together for a community conversation about what’s working well and what could make Rochester an even better place to live.

The forum will also build on findings from the 2026 National Community Survey, giving residents an opportunity to share their own experiences and ideas.

Join us at the Historic Chateau Theatre, 15 First St. SW, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

RSVPs are encouraged but not required. Come share your ideas, connect with your community, and enjoy light refreshments!

Event details: https://events.rochestermn.gov/allcityevents/Detail/2026-11-30-1730-Community-amp-Council-Forum

10/28/2026

City Council Meetings are happening on November 2 & 16 at 6 p.m. Visit www.rochestermn.gov/agendas for the agendas, viewing options and instructions on how to submit public comments.

10/27/2026

RPT offers free rides to polling places on Election Day

Rochester Public Transit (RPT) is offering free rides to polling places on Tuesday, November 3, to help make voting more accessible.

Simply let your bus driver know you're heading to the polls to vote, and your ride is free!

Election Day Details:
• Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Free transit rides are available from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Find more information at https://www.rochestermn.gov/news/posts/rpt-offers-free-rides-to-polling-places-on-election-day/

10/27/2026

Modifying the Silver Lake dam will improve the area while keeping most of the lake as it is today.

The project will help water move through the area, improve fish and wildlife habitat, and create new ways to enjoy the river, including areas for kayaking and tubing.

It will also provide an opportunity to add an accessible trail under the North Broadway Bridge, connecting Silver Lake trails to the South Fork Zumbro River trail system without requiring people to cross the street.

Learn more about the Silver Lake Project: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/collections/61ce2d6bcd2442c1a3960b060695f98d