Beloved Union Park Rocket Slide reopens

DES MOINES, Iowa — The Rocket Slide at Des Moines Union Park opened in 1971 during the height of the “space craze”.

“This is the city’s oldest play structure and we’re excited to give it a new lease on life,” Parks and Recreation Director Ben Page said at Wednesday’s reopening.

The playground has been closed for a major renovation, but it’s faced the wrecking ball in the past.

“I’m so happy it’s still here,” says Mari Brown. “It is such a special part of the city.”

Brown grew up across the street and led the charge to save the slide in the early 90s. She created a group called, “Save the Rocket Slide for Kids Kommitte” and named herself president.

She and her friends created petitions and collected signatures and attended city council meetings, and their efforts paid off. The city, local businesses, non-profits and volunteers raised money for the necessary upgrades.

Mari says when she saw warning signs and fences surrounding the slide recently, she contacted the city again. She was thrilled to hear another upgrade was in the works.

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