Petersen Splash Pad Under Construction at Watson Park

Construction is underway on the Splash Pad at Watson Park funded by money from tugboat Capt. August Julius Petersen.

The foundation is in at the eastern end of the park and water, sewer and electrical systems are being installed now, Recreation Director Nelson Chin said. The project remains on schedule and should be complete by the end of June.

"It's coming along," Chin said.

After Capt. Petersen died in 1963 and gave Braintree $65,000 for a pool at Watson Park, the funds grew to nearly $2 million and town officials fought to allow the pool to be placed elsewhere after some neighborhood residents criticized the original location.

Two and a half years ago, Sullivan proposed placing the pool at the high school, partnering with a private company and adding an ice rink as well. Braintree will contribute $1.5 million from the Petersen fund, and the company is expected to make an initial investment of $8 million to $10 million.

The remaining Petersen money was earmarked for improvements at Watson Park, including a splash pad, parking and revamped walking trails.