July is National Park and Recreation Month! This year's theme, “Where Community Grows”, highlights the vital role park and recreation professionals play in bringing people together, providing essential services and fostering the growth of our communities. During this month, we want to highlight the dedicated parks and recreation professionals who have been strong advocates for public water play spaces and share the many ways their efforts have brought joy and enrichment to the lives of countless individuals within their communities.
Veterans Memorial Park "Water Cycle" Splash Pad
Hudson, Florida
The Investigation Station "Water Cycle" Splash Pad at Veterans Memorial Park is an innovative and educational water play area, designed to enlighten patrons about the fascinating Water Cycle. Spearheaded by Investigation Station, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing interactive educational exhibits in Pasco County, Florida, this inclusive splash pad offers a unique opportunity for children to learn while engaging in aquatic play. Funded through a collaborative effort between Investigation Station, the Hudson Rotary Club, and local businesses, the project aims to address the need for more child-centric leisure education in the community.
"We brought Investigation Station into fruition because there was a need in Pasco County for more leisure education aimed at children. We have lots of things and activities for senior citizens in our community. But we were really lacking for children." - Lisa Campos, Director of Investigation Station.
“I think the whole community is going to be super excited about this,” - Jack Mariano, Pasco County Commissioner
The 3,600-square-foot water play area is equipped with various interactive water features designed to captivate young minds. Patrons can engage with an Aqua Animal 3, Aqua Dumping Bucket, Aqua Fall, Aqua Cannon 2, Aqua Super Misting Curve, and various ground sprays, each carefully chosen to illustrate different aspects of the Water Cycle. These features encourage curiosity and exploration, enhancing the educational value of the splash pad.
Adjacent to the splash pad, an educational mural has been installed, providing visual explanations of the Water Cycle. This artistic addition further enhances the learning experience for young visitors. Additionally, water management is ensured through a recirculating filtration system equipped with UV splash pad sanitization, guaranteeing a safe and hygienic water play environment for children.
The project has been well-received, with residents recognizing its positive impact on children's leisure education and the town's overall recreational offerings. The support of Investigation Station, the Hudson Rotary Club, local businesses, and Pasco County Parks exemplifies the town's dedication to investing in the well-being and educational development of its young residents. As the splash pad becomes a cherished community asset, it will leave a lasting impact on generations to come, fostering a culture of exploration, inclusivity, and learning through the joy of water play.
Buenaventura Lakes, Florida
The El Yunque Splash Pad is a groundbreaking water play area in Buena Ventura Lakes, Florida, and is the first splash pad installed in Osceola County. Inspired by the breathtaking wildlife found in Puerto Rico's El Yunque National Forest, this inclusive splash pad offers a safe and engaging space for community members to cool off and enjoy water-based recreational activities. The project reflects the vision of local authorities and fulfills the community's desire for a unique and refreshing outdoor attraction.
“The community asked for a splash pad and I made it happen. This splash pad is just one more opportunity to totally reinvent the property for the benefit of our residents. Adding touches reflective of El Yunque will make this a special place for those who come here to cool off and relax.” - Viviana Janer, County Commissioner
The El Yunque Splash Pad offers an array of over thirty interactive water features, each thoughtfully selected to evoke the essence of the national forest. Some of the captivating water features include the Aqua Jungle Bucket, Aqua Cat Tail, Aqua Twirling Palm, Aqua Drops, Aqua Butterfly, Aqua Post, Aqua Snake, Aqua Tipping Coco Palm, Aqua Cannon, and Aqua Alligator, among others. These themed water features and ground sprays create a dynamic and engaging play space, inspiring imaginative play and adventure for children and families alike.
Safety and inclusivity were paramount considerations in the design process. The splash pad is carefully designed to create a water play area with no standing water, ensuring a safe environment for children and individuals of all abilities to enjoy. This aspect of the project promotes a sense of belonging and fosters a community spirit where everyone can participate in the fun.
With its diverse interactive water features and safe design, the water play area offers an exciting escape for families and individuals seeking respite from the summer heat. The project's successful realization is a testament to the vision, collaboration, and dedication of the district, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can delight in the splendor of El Yunque in this one-of-a-kind aquatic haven.
“When I envisioned this splash pad and shared that dream with staff, I knew we would be creating a special place. But now that I’m standing here in front of the finished product, I can say that it has exceeded my expectations. I’m so happy that I was able to make this splash pad happen for the residents of District 2. The timing is perfect because this summer is so hot – and now people in the BVL community have a convenient spot to cool off and enjoy some fun. Adding touches reflective of El Yunque helps make this a special place for those who have fond memories of that Puerto Rican treasure.” - Viviana Janer, City Commissioner
Interested in Creating a Public Water Play Area for Your Community?
