High Falls State Park Update!
Plans for Rochester’s new High Falls State Park are moving forward with community input at the heart of the process. Since November 2023, the OLIN design team has engaged with residents through events, surveys, mailings, and meetings—gathering feedback from thousands.
What the Community Wants
Rochesterians want a space to reconnect with nature, reflect on the area’s rich history, and enjoy shared experiences. Top desired activities include:
Biking, walking, and hiking
Watching the waterfall
Learning about local history
Attending cultural events
Five Key Themes Guiding the Park Design
Ecology – Restore natural ecosystems and support stewardship
Programming – Encourage low-impact recreation and community celebrations
Equity – Ensure access for all and prioritize inclusive design
Connectivity – Link trails and create safe access to the river
Heritage – Preserve and share the area’s diverse cultural stories
What’s Next
The park will be free to enter, but several questions remain:
How do we define and design for safety?
How can we better reach nearby neighborhoods?
Where will visitors park?
How will the park connect to the Inner Loop North and Genesee River Trail?
A Framework Plan and updated concept will be shared by year’s end. The vision is big—and the ribbon won’t be cut for another 5–6 years—but the future of High Falls is being built today, together.
