Parks & Recreation

South St. Paul Parks & Recreation

Important announcement regarding Central Square Community Center, Parks & Recreation, Senior Center and South St. Paul School District (April 23, 2021). 

After over nine months of discussion and almost 20 years of operation, the City of South St. Paul and South St. Paul Public Schools (SSPPS) will be ending their Joint Management Agreement for Central Square Community Center effective June 30, 2021.  As a result of this decision, SSPPS will take over the operation of Central Square as part of programming through Community Education.  Specific impacts of this action are still being evaluated.   However, we do know that the School District will maintain a strong senior program for the community.  

Central Square has been experiencing declining memberships since 2013.   The COVID-19 pandemic has further impacted memberships and attendance.  The School District, as owners of the facility, was deemed to be in the best position to operate the building going forward given certain components of the facility are needed for School District operations (swimming pool, gymnastics area, and meeting rooms).   

The City’s Parks & Recreation Department will shift their focus to traditional programming activities.  Their operations will move to the first floor of City Hall prior to July 1^st.   The City has also pledged its full cooperation with South St. Paul Public Schools to facilitate a smooth transition.

Further information as to specific changes and impacts on future Central Square usage can be directed to the SSPPS Community Education Department at 651-306-3631.

The Three Divisions of the Parks & Recreation Department

The South St. Paul Parks & Recreation Department is comprised of three divisions: Parks & Recreation Administration, Recreation and Facilities, Doug Woog Arena.

Parks & Recreation Administration

Provides direction and staff support to the Parks & Recreation Department and coordinates the Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission.
Information about the Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission

Parks and Facilities

Provides programs, special events, and opportunities for all ages from preschool to seniors that are both fee and non-fee based. On average more than 250 programs are offered providing leisure opportunities to over 13,000 participants annually.
View the Parks and Facilities

Doug Woog Arena  

	A part of the tradition of South St. Paul hockey for more than 50 years. Built in October 1962 as a one-ice sheet facility, the arena has expanded, now boasting two rinks, large lobby, concession stand, an off -ice training facility, community meeting space and elevated warm viewing areas. The building also houses the Community Learning Center (CLC.)
While hockey and skating are the main attractions at Doug Woog Arena, the facility has hosted many dry floor events, such as concerts, dances, graduations, roller derby, circuses, home and garden shows and festivals.
	The arena is also home to the Blades N Motion Skating School, offering skating lessons for beginners with little or no experience to advanced levels.

Our Mission Statement

The goal of Park and Recreation is to meet the needs of our community with superior customer service.