Wayland looking to introduce splash pad summer 2020

WAYLAND - Splashing into summer will take on a whole new meaning in 2020 as the City of Wayland looks to upgrade West Park by adding a splash pad next summer.

What to do with the 800 square foot area has been up for discussion for several years, but a committee formed in May 2019 was the final push to get the project going. Wayland City Clerk Bev Conrad said the city talked about the possibility of a splash pad about five years ago, but after looking at the cost, it was deemed not fiscally possible at the time.

The city also looked into the idea of installing a pool, but decided they could not sustain the manpower and financial cost, making a splash pad a much more affordable option. Keeping all of this in mind, the committee scaled back the original plan due to cost and began fundraising to create a new design. The new splash pad, to be named the West Park Wetlands, will be shaped like a lily pad and have a nature theme with seven to eight interactive features.

The city has set aside $100,000 and will continue to apply for grants and fundraise as they move forward with the estimated $300,000 project in West Park, adjacent to the Parkview Home. In addition to the splash pad, the city is looking to purchase new playground equipment, upgrade restroom facilities and create a miniature trail around the park.

The goal is to have the fundraising complete by spring 2020 and phase one, the restrooms upgrade and the splash pad installation, complete by summer 2020. Phase two, the upgrade of the playground equipment and trail around the park, will be completed shortly after.

With the next closest splash pads being in Hills and Iowa City, Conrad said the committee hopes this project will not only improve the quality of life for residents but also bring in families from surrounding towns for free, safe fun in the summer.

'It improves the quality of life and adds recreational qualities and it's a good family activity,” she said.

Fundraising will continue throughout the year. Anyone wishing to donate may do so at city hall or through a committee member. Anyone with questions can contact Wayland City Hall at: 319-256-3276.