By: NICOLAS FIERRO
Salina Post
The establishment of the upcoming new splash pad at Jerry Ivey Memorial Park, has reportedly been delayed.
According to a Facebook post from Salina Parks and Recreation, "the contractor and the City are working to make sure the splash pad is safe and ready for everyone to enjoy."
The project was in the finishing touches stage, according to Salina Parks and Recreation.
"We will share the new opening date as soon as it is confirmed," the agency said.
A bid from Athco LLC was approved by Salina Commissioners on Monday September 22, 2025, totaling $709,165.
Read more: New splash pad approved for Jerry Ivey Park
Athco LLC's scope of work would include:
- Splash pad supply and return lines
- Excavation for splash pad 60' diameter and MecH2O (mechanical building)
- Crane and offloading MecH20
- Splash pad concrete w/ bonding
- 5' outer perimeter sidewalk with an all concrete light broom finish
- Setting all Aquatix features
- Setting MecH20
- Digiwall Panel for artwork on 1 side of the MecH20
- Low voltage wiring from start switch to MecH2O
- Installing (6) benches
- Start-up and City training
- Site restoration to rough grade w/ seed & straw
A comment from the City Commission meeting packet stated, "the proposal has a very good balance of value within the budget for the number of features. Additionally, they showed adequate experience, will provide support after installation, provide the manufacturer’s warranty and can meet the proposed timeline.”
Matt Cline represented Athco LLC at the City Commission meeting on September 22, 2025 and spoke with City Commissioners about what the company is and has done.
Athco is a landscape company based in Kansas that has supplied playground, athletic and recreational equipment since 1952.
Cline has been with Athco since September 2011 and is originally from Salina.
Learn more about Athco LLC: https://athcollc.com/about/
The City's responsibilities for the splash pad would be:
- Site preparation
- Provide geotechnical testing
- Ensure the excavated site meets required compaction
- Ensuring the electrical service and sanitary sewer meets splash pad requirements
- Providing final utility connections
- Providing a dumpster for trash
- Hauling off soils or rock
Projected completion date was initially set for mid-April or beginning of May, 2026.