MANCHESTER, NH — You’ll have to wait a little longer to test out the city’s new Dupont Splash Pad Park on Mason Street, but it should be worth the wait, says City Parks and Rec Director Don Pinard.
“Conservative estimate, we’re shooting for August 1 to open,” says Pinard. He explained that the main hold up was finding a contractor for the job.
“We had trouble securing a contractor. There seem to be fewer of them bidding on jobs, and this wasn’t a huge contract, but that did set things back. We’d hoped to have it completed sooner,” says Pinard.
⇒ Related story: Where to swim: City pools opening this week
Right now crews are busy repairing the existing concrete walls and stairs. Delivery of the manufactured amenities is set for June 23. Once the equipment arrives, the contractor will begin installation, which will take about three weeks, and then another contractor will come in to pour the pad. Once cured, it will be another week before they can cut the proverbial ribbon.
“The advantage is that it can stay open longer than our pools because we don’t need a lifeguard, so when we have some of those hot days in September, the splash pad will be able to provide some relief to city residents,” Pinard said.
The reasoning behind transforming Dupont pool into a splash pad was primarily practical.
“With the pool in need of major costly repairs and understanding there was a need in Manchester for alternatives to cooling off in the summer, we felt the time was right,” says Pinard. “The splash pad provides the opportunity for families with very small children and toddlers, as well accessibility for everyone to enjoy. It’s a beautiful area with huge potential, and the season is lengthened giving us the potential to open around Memorial Day and stay open passed Labor Day if we choose. This will be by far the largest splash pad in the area.”
Pinard noted that the city still has a strong commitment to its other four pools and swim programs.
The splash pad, which was budgeted at $425,000, will be split into the three age-appropriate locations, says Pinard, with smaller spray nozzles located throughout the park. Tables and benches in shaded areas will also be included, for picnicking or relaxing.
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