City Council Advances Splash Pad Project

SAN ANGELO, TX - In a city council meeting held on Tuesday, Feb. 16, Parks & Recreation Director Carl White provided an update on the progress of the splash pad project initiated by All-Tex Irrigation & Supply, LLC.

White informed the council that on Jan. 17, 2023, the city council adopted a resolution supporting All-Tex Irrigation & Supply's fundraising endeavors to construct splash pads at Unidad and Kirby Park. 

The collective target for both splash pads is set at $850,000.

All-Tex Irrigation & Supply, a local irrigation company, is spearheading the private fundraising efforts. 

Progress has been made, with the necessary funds already secured for the commencement of the first splash pad at Unidad Park. 

Information shown at the meeting states that implementation is anticipated to commence in April, with completion expected in late May/early June. 

Renderings of the splash pad show the different elements, such as different spray elements and different play elements that are at different heights for a range of children.

This would be a recirculating system. Water would come in, be filtered, pass through the spray elements, and return for purification.

White emphasized that upon adopting the resolution, the city would need to hire a technician responsible for inspecting, operating, and maintaining the splash pads and city pools. The associated annual cost for salary and benefits is estimated at $63,300.

Deliberations within the council extended to maintenance, operation, financial considerations and discussed the potential time frame of splash pad operations. 

“I think we should celebrate where we’re at, at this point in time,” Mayor Brenda Gunter said. “Let’s keep moving this project forward.” 

The splash pad project is slated to be a recurring agenda item, ensuring the council remains updated on its developments.

You can watch the meeting here. 

Residents interested in supporting the All-Tex Irrigation Splash Pads project can make contributions through various channels:

• Online via the San Angelo Area Foundation. Click here to make a secure online donation.
• In-Person or Mailed: Donations can be made in person at the San Angelo Area Foundation located at 221 S. Irving St, San Angelo, TX 76903. If mailing a check, it must be made out to San Angelo Area Foundation, with the memo noting "All-Tex Splash Pad Fund."