On September 8, 2025, the City of Columbia Heights celebrated the opening of its new Fitness Court® Studio at Sullivan Lake Park—a vibrant addition to the community’s wellness landscape and a testament to collaboration among local partners.

The event brought together city officials, community members, and project sponsors to cut the ribbon on the new outdoor wellness space, which features striking artwork by Alicia De La Cruz, creator of Waabooz Beading, and two-spirit Indigenous artist enrolled in the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe and a descendant of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe. A Columbia Heights native, De La Cruz’s design celebrates the city’s connection to nature, illustrating Turtle Island, the life cycle of monarch butterflies, and native Minnesota pollinators. 

Following the ribbon-cutting, attendees joined a free Zumba demonstration led by local business Alicia Fitness, highlighting the city’s commitment to accessible and inclusive movement opportunities.

“I hope community members come out and enjoy the new Fitness Court Studio together. It’s free, fun and a great way to get moving,” said Columbia Heights Mayor Amada Marquez Simula.

The Columbia Heights Fitness Court Studio was made possible through the support of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Anoka County SHIP, and a network of local partners including the Columbia Heights Athletic Boosters, Columbia Heights-Fridley Kiwanis, Fridley-Columbia Heights Rotary, and Sister Cities.

The project represents a key milestone in BCBSMN's statewide partnership with NFC, which is building healthier communities across the state through accessible outdoor fitness spaces.

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

The new Fitness Court Studio at Sullivan Lake Park provides residents with free access to world-class outdoor exercise equipment, functional training tools, and guided workouts through the Fitness Court® App, designed for all ages and fitness levels.