The City of Rochester proudly announces the grand opening of Nancy Loud Park, a revitalized community green space on the site of the former Nancy Loud School. A ribbon-cutting ceremony, held in partnership with the Rochester Chamber of Commerce, took place on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the park.
The park commemorates the Nancy Loud School, named after the school’s first principal, Nancy Loud, who served from 1980-2008. Loud, who is currently retired and residing in Rochester, attended the ceremony and performed the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon.
After the closure of Nancy Loud School in August 2023, Rochester embarked on an ambitious project to transform the former school site into a dynamic public amenity. This project was funded with City Council-allocated funds from the American Rescue Plan Act. Through community listening sessions in 2023 and 2024, residents contributed ideas, provided feedback, and helped shape the park’s design to reflect the needs and vision of the neighborhood.
The new park includes:
- A new playground
- A new basketball court, painted and ready for play
- Multi-generational fitness equipment
- Benches and bike racks
- Gravel walking paths weave through the site
- Ambient perimeter lighting
- Preservation of the existing East Rochester Pool and pool house
The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured remarks from Caitlyn Turgeon of the Rochester Chamber of Commerce, Mayor Paul Callaghan, Nancy Loud, and Recreation Director Lauren Krans. The Rochester Public Library also coordinated a StoryWalk® around the park, allowing patrons to enjoy a fun book while exploring the new space.
“The large support behind creating this park, both from City decision-makers and individual citizens, is a profound statement,” said Recreation Director Lauren Krans. “Rochester values community gathering spots, and Rochester understands that recreational facilities create fun and connection – and that’s why they are critical community infrastructure.”
Community members can learn more about Nancy Loud Park and other recreation facilities in Rochester by visiting rec.rochesternh.gov.
