West Grey is committing $100,000 for a new splash pad in Durham.
Council approved the funding for the project during a meeting on Tuesday, after hearing a delegation from a representative of Durham 150, the group behind the project, Alex Neuman.
“We are looking to build a positive, healthy and inclusive environment, building on existing equipment,” says Neuman. “It would be useful for all ages and all members of the community, not just kids but adults can go there and enjoy the park as well.”
This over $343,000 project comes after the 2022 homecoming celebrations in Durham, in which the homecoming committee wanted to install a legacy project.
The committee approached council on March 7 requesting backing for the project. At that time, council directed staff to work with the committee and report back.
Through consultations with the committee and after a review of the available properties, the group determined they would like to install a new splashpad and pavilion at the Town Hall Park.
Durham Splashpad Map (Image from West Grey council)
“Fundraising for our goal is about $350,000. Homecoming has raised a little over $100,000, we are looking for a municipal contribution to match our Homecoming of $100,000 hopefully using some development charge fees that are in the budget. We are looking to fundraise another $150,000,” says Neuman.
Neuman adds the committee is also asking to work with municipal staff to put together the final design and on construction of the splashpad, and for West Grey to look at options for a changing facility and washroom.
Corporate and Community Initiatives Officer Kodey Hewlett says they currently are in the process of looking at options for public washrooms.
“We are actively investigating washroom options either retrofits to existing buildings or potentially stand alone units,” says Hewlett.
While concerns were raised over water and sewer capacity during the meeting, a report will be brought back to council to determine an appropriate system.
Durham 150 is starting the necessary approval process and finalizing the design this month, before it goes on to start its fundraising campaign and continue work on approvals and pre-construction planning in January.
Construction will start in May and take about eight weeks, with a grand opening planned for Canada Day.