Board Reorganizes, Elects Jeske President and Gilbertson Vice President Newly elected board members Michael Gilbertson, Russ Hanson, and Julie Jeske were sworn into office by legal counsel. Jeske was elected president, and Gilbertson was elected vice president. Commissioners were assigned to management team portfolios. Brian Nelson shared an update on
Bismarck Parks and Recreation District facilities will be open as listed for the Fourth of July. Friday, July 3 The Administrative Office is closed, while all other facilities are normal operating hours. Saturday, July 4 BSC Aquatic & Wellness Center – Closed Capital Racquet & Fitness Center – Closed Elks
Judi Swanberg and Jennifer DeForest shared an update on Riverwood Women’s Golf Association as a Bismarck Parks and Recreation District featured partner. BPRD Recreation Manager RaNae Jochim shared information about the upcoming July Celebration in honor of National Park and Recreation Month. 2026 marks the 40th year BPRD has hosted
The 3rd Annual Bismarck Recreation Council Golf Scramble at Riverwood Golf Course on June 16 was a huge success thanks to our sponsors, teams, and silent auction donors. We greatly appreciate the strong commitment to the BRC Endowment Fund, a permanent legacy that supports Bismarck Parks and Recreation District recreational
A Final Note from Retiring Executive Director Kevin Klipfel As I reflect on my time serving as executive director of Bismarck Parks and Recreation District, along with a 34-year career in public parks and recreation, I am filled with deep gratitude for this incredible community. Parks and recreation is about
Liliana Norby shared an update on Theo Art School as a BPRD featured partner. The Board also heard from Gavin McCollam about another featured partner, Sleepy Hollow Theatre & Arts Park. The Board authorized staff in partnership with the Bismarck Recreation Council to work with the Lions District 5NW Cabinet
On Monday, May 25, for Memorial Day, all Bismarck Parks and Recreation District facilities will be open for regularly scheduled hours, except for the BPRD administrative office and World War Memorial Building.
The free splash pad at New Generations Park will open Tuesday, May 26, for daily hours of 10:00am-8:00pm. Bismarck Parks and Recreation District’s three outdoor pools will open for the season on Monday, June 1, at 12:00pm. Pool hours at Elks Aquatic Center, Hillside Aquatic Complex, and Paul H. Wachter
The Board of Park Commissioners has selected David Leker for the position of executive director of Bismarck Parks and Recreation District effective June 18, following the retirement of Kevin Klipfel. Leker comes to BPRD with a wealth of executive leadership experience, having served as executive director of Fargo Park District
Dr. Jeff Fastnacht, Bismarck Public Schools superintendent, presented information on the $127 million bond referendum on the June 9 ballot. Bismarck Parks and Recreation District Recreation Manager RaNae Jochim introduced the four BPS students that developed the two logos for the park district’s 100th anniversary in 2027: Elias Abryzom, Calee
In January, Bismarck Parks and Recreation District sought public input to help guide our 2027-2029 strategic planning process. A Community Input Survey, open from January 13-29, 2026, invited feedback about BPRD strengths, opportunities for improvement, and future facility and park needs. 838 responses were received. Value and Satisfaction Five questions
All Bismarck Parks and Recreation District facilities will be open for regularly scheduled hours April 3-5, 2026, except as listed below: BPRD Administrative Office – closed Friday, April 3 BSC Aquatic & Wellness Center – closed Sunday, April 5 Capital Ice Complex – closed Sunday, April 5 Capital Racquet &