SPLASH IN OUR COMMUNITY

BY LISA COWNIE

Splish Splash, North Mankato is up to the task.

“We’ve always wondered why our community never had one,” reflects Kya Keegan, mother of three and long-time North Mankato resident. “Since our girls love the Spring Lake Pool, this will be a nice bonus. Having a splash pad close to home is definitely a plus. It’s also nice to have a different option when it gets hot outside and it just happens to be right next to one of our favorite parks!”

The new attraction, a 4,500sf splash pad next to the popular Fallenstein Playground off Howard Drive should open in June of 2022. It is sure to make a splash for residents of all ages and city officials see it as the next logical step in making that area of Upper North Mankato, a destination for all.

“The project targets all demographics, we really want this amenity to host family members of all ages,” explains Nate Host, North Mankato Public Works Director. “The features in the splashpad range from small bubblers, water jet streams, a water pathway feature that allows users to manipulate the path of water with gates and roller balls, to larger features such as a dump bucket, directional spray jets, water loops and fountain sprayers. In total the project has 25 features.”

Shady spots, as well as benches and tables, will be added along the perimeter. In total, the project will cost about $300,00 to $350,000, with $150,000 coming from the Ward Family Foundation.

Host says the project had been in the minds of city planners for years and the need was clear.

“The greater Mankato area doesn’t have a splashpad and our staff have been hearing from citizens for several years about the lack of splashpad. Knowing that, we saw a natural fit to add this facility to our most popular park at Fallenstein. With the possible addition of the indoor rec center we love what is taking place at Caswell Park.”

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