COLUMBIA, MD — A proposed splash park has been introduced by leaders with the Columbia Association that would compliment the multiple pools scattered across the county.
Columbia Association's fiscal year 2027 budget includes $350,000 to support the design of a splash park. The proposed park would offer a water play area that uses sprays, jets and fountains on a flat surface without standing water. Picnic areas, shade structures and other recreational features would be installed around the splash park.
Julie Miller, director of media relations and communications for the Columbia Association, told Patch that the idea for a full-scale splash park came from the heavy use of the splash pad in the Merriweather District.
"(It's) a popular destination on warm days, demonstrating strong community interest in and use of this type of amenity. A Columbia Association splash park would expand opportunities for water-based play, offering features that appeal to a wider range of ages while also creating additional spaces for community gathering. A splash park would engage all ages, cultures, incomes and abilities, aligning with affordability and accessibility goals emphasized in the CA 2025 Strategic Plan," Miller told Patch.
However, to accommodate for a full-scale splash park in town, one of the 23 outdoor pools would need to be closed and replaced with the splash park.
But leaders note that only if a site can be agreed upon by village leadership and the broader community will the project move forward.
"If a site is mutually agreed upon, Columbia Association would then move into the design phase. If no site is identified, Columbia Association will determine next steps with the board of directors," leaders emphasized.
Residents are encouraged to weigh in on the project at this online link.
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Columbia, MD Patch
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