By Janelle Davis
As September began with relatively high temperatures, many were looking for a way to cool off.
For those in the Town of Cicero, the town’s new splash pad facility was opened just in time.
After a daunting journey to break ground, the Town of Cicero celebrated a soft opening for the splash pad on Tuesday, Sept. 5, from noon to 6 p.m., held at Joseph F. William Park on Lakeshore Road.
“It was a great turnout, it has been all week, and we expect it to be through the weekend. We lucked out with the beautiful weather this week,” said Teresa Roth, Cicero’s director of parks and recreation.
Initially the town had planned to open much sooner, with plans to have the plash pad running this past spring, but the opening was pushed back as contractors waited on National Grid to move a gas line.
In addition to delays in construction, the town anxiously waited three weeks for the pad to cure and two weeks for the sod to establish before they could open the splash pad.
Thanks to a $250,000 grant, construction has finished, and families can enjoy a day at the beach at Oneida Shores, and then head over to the splash pad.
“Families have been wading in the waters of Oneida Shores, then going over to the splash pad,” Roth said. “Parents have been enjoying it too.”
Chelsea Marnell is among those who live nearby.
“Living so close, my family always hoped they would build a splash pad at Oneida Shores,” Marnell said. “My boys are very excited and we can’t wait to check it out.”
Soon, families will be able to mosey on over to a new playground later in the fall.
Roth said that the town is in the process of building a playground adjacent to the splash pad. It will be more accessible for those with disabilities.
Roth added that the town also plan on building additional landscaping, benches, and picnic tables in the future.
When all is said and done, the town plan on a grand opening in June of 2024 with plans to include activities, contests, food vendors, music, and a ribbon cutting.
Roth said the town will keep the splash pad open through September, weather permitting.
She also shared that they may be able to open it on warm weekends this fall.
Hours are 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Restrooms will close at 4 p.m.
For additional information and days it may be open in the fall, check the town’s Facebook schedule for updates.
