ribbon cutting ceremony
Our Communities

IN PHOTOS: Now open – outdoor fitness courts in Mounds View and Columbia Heights

October 6, 2025

In 2022, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota (Blue Cross) and the National Fitness Campaign announced plans to bring 10 free outdoor fitness courts to communities across the state with the goal of creating accessible spaces for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to improve their health in an approachable, functional and scalable way.

Recently, Blue Cross joined the local communities in Columbia Heights and Mounds View to open the fifth and sixth fitness courts in the state, joining others in Willmar, Shakopee, Moose Lake, and at the University of Minnesota.

“This is part of our broader commitments to help everyone live their healthiest lives, build a culture of shared wellness and remain responsive to the evolving needs of all Minnesotans,” said Blue Cross Chief Community Officer Bukata Hayes at the ribbon cutting event in Mounds View. “Through community investment, advocacy and partnerships like the one we are celebrating today, we can continue to bring people together and build healthy communities.”

Below are images from the ribbon cutting events in Mounds View and Columbia Heights.

Mounds View Ribbon Cutting

Bukata Hayes speaking at an outdoor podium
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Chief Community Officer, Bukata Hayes, speaking at the ribbon cutting event in Mounds View.

 

City of Mounds View officials and community members gather to cut the ribbon and officially open the fitness court.

 

 

The City of Mounds View Police and Fire Departments faceoff in a fitness challenge on the new court.

 

 

Local artist Reggie LeFlore with the mural he designed for the fitness court.

 

The new fitness court.

 

Columbia Heights Ribbon Cutting

 

Blue Cross Director of Community Health Operations, Sarah Senseman, speaking at the ribbon cutting event.

 

The ribbon is cut and the fitness court is officially open for the community to enjoy.

 

Local artist Alicia De La Cruz poses with her mural.

 

Free Zumba class on the new fitness court.

 

Learn more

To learn more about the Blue Cross partnership with the National Fitness Campaign, click here.