Why is the City building a splash pad?

    The City of Ridgefield regularly conducts a statically valid 'Community Survey' of residents, asking questions about current and future services, features and amenities in Ridgefield. In 2019, when asked about potential future park amenities, a Splash pad ranked in the top three. 

    After reviewing these results, City Council directed staff to begin work to build a splash pad in Ridgefield.

    Why is the Splash Pad flat?

    The Overlook Park Splash Pad was intentionally designed not to have above ground features so that the space may be used for other events and activities during the off-season. 

    Overlook Park is in the center of Downtown Ridgefield and is home to many community events. It has the unique features of a large, open stage and a view looking out at the waterfront, river, and Refuge. A traditional splash pad with above ground spray pipes and buckets would not only prevent any other uses of the space, but also would obstruct the view.

    What does it mean to have a recirculating system?

    The Overlook Park Splash Pad is designed with a recirculating system. This means that the water that runs through the Splash Pad is collected, treated with chlorine, and recirculated through the system, like in a swimming pool.

    A recirculating system means a more complex system. Some splash pads, like the one in La Center, send water through the jets and features one time, and then the water is drained to the sewer system. A recirculating system requires additional parts, regular maintenance, and is regulated through Clark County Public Health.