Renovations at APEX playground and splash pad at Memorial Park in Jasper are nearing completion.
Initially, Jasper officials had hoped the playground area would be open by Memorial Day weekend, but recent rain in the area has pushed that back a week or so.
“The rain has slowed the work down, which has pushed back our opening day a little, but it’s close to being finished,” said Stacy Smothers, manager and aquatics director at the Memorial Park Natatorium.
The playground will take on a new look with the turf safety surfacing that is replacing the old rubber surface. The splash pad has been moved to the rear of the playground in new location.
“This will be much better for parents who didn’t plan for their children to get wet while at the playground,” Smothers said.
The design has been changed from a recirculated water system to a flow through system that continuously supplies fresh water to the features. This will cut down on chemical usage and maintenance of pumps and filters.
There have been a few new play features added to the playground in the space where the splash pad used to be.
Repairs are being made to the decks and other playground equipment that had been worn or broken.
“We’ve met a few chain supply issues along the way, but I think the end product will be worth the wait. I thank the Mayor and City Council for letting me come to them with ideas and them being behind me from the start and providing the necessary funding to make the improvements for this project,” Smothers said. “We will be adding accessories such as picnic tables and benches as they come in, but we will open the gates as soon as the contractors turn it over to us.”
The city will begin taking reservations for pavilion rentals as soon as given the all clear by the contractor. Any further information and reservations can be made by coming to the Natatorium or by phone at (205) 384-9617.
“I’m happy to have been able to make the improvements and repairs that were so greatly needed at APEX and I look forward to more improvements in the future,” Smothers added.
