Chris Whitaker
AMERICUS — The newest spot for kids to cool off this summer is open for fun.
The Splash Pad, located at the new Columns at Boone Park Community Center at 408 Rucker St., features fountains similar to those of Centennial Park in Atlanta, and it opened Monday.
“I’m hoping it will be something that families come to,” said Tim Estes, executive director of the Sumter County Parks and Recreation Department. “I know it’s going to be an attraction to anyone around that area, and we hope it’s something mom and dad and the kids come out together where it becomes more of a family atmosphere than what the swimming pools are.”
Estes said children 8-and-under were the main focus in the Pad’s development. Unfortunately, Estes said there has been some technical problems this week that he hopes will be fixed as soon as possible.
The Pad has two activation devices that are computerized that set certain sequences in order. Estes said an awning will be built to provide more shade, and concessions will be available starting Monday.
It is open from 2-6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday with a cost of $3 for children 12-and-under. Everyone else must purchase a $5 membership on their first visit and would present the card and pay $3 for each subsequent visit.
It is available for rentals from 6:30 p.m. to dark, and after June it will be available from 9 a.m. to noon for groups up to 50 at $125 an hour. The birthday party rate is $150, which includes one hour in the Pad and 30 minutes in a party room.
Estes also said the opening for the Rucker Street swimming pool has been delayed.
“This facility passed health code inspections and was fully operational, but during the first day of operation, the pool pump and motor went bad and will need to be replaced,” he said. “A replacement has been ordered and will be installed as soon as it is on site. All lessons that will be missed due to this down time will be made up on successive Fridays during the day camp session. We apologize for this inconvenience and ask you to bear with us during this time.”
