Top Spots for a Splash Pad in Troy
Let's Dream a Dream....a place for families to cool off in the Summer
As summer approaches, the idea of a refreshing splash pad becomes increasingly appealing to families looking for outdoor activities. Splash pads not only offer a fun and safe water play environment but also enhance the community’s recreational facilities.
When it comes to our community, what is keeping this from happening? Is it the city’s financial picture from keeping this from happening? Hardly. This past Monday, City Council authorized a grant application that committed $400,000 of general fund dollars for a shared-use path that a local resident said in public comments, “Will go from nowhere to nowhere.” Imagine if we made an investment in something people actually wanted?
And how do we know people want a splash pad? Well, last week at Friday night’s downtown festivities, representatives from the City and American Structurepoint, the city’s consultant on the new Comprehensive Plan were on hand and asked for public input on new potential public amenities; a splash pad was a clear winner.
So if the desire is there and the finances are there. Maybe it’s the location that is holding this back. Perhaps it’s high time to think about where a splash pad could go in our community. There is no better time than now to start the conversation. After reviewing the amenities and characteristics of various parks in Troy, here are the top locations that would be perfect for a large splash pad:
5. Archer Park
Location:
110 Foss Way
Features:
Medium size (20.6 acres)
Sports facilities (baseball, basketball, soccer)
Walking paths and playgrounds
Restrooms and parking facilities
Why Archer Park?
Archer Park is certainly big enough and has plenty of parking. Archer Park’s blend of sports facilities and green space makes it an ideal candidate for a splash pad. Its amenities cater to various age groups, ensuring a broad appeal. The park’s infrastructure supports large gatherings, and its central location makes it easily accessible. A splash pad here would provide a much-needed water play area, enhancing the park’s recreational offerings. But, it’s not exactly in the easiest location to get to, especially for those that are walking to the splash pad. Not a bad choice, but there are better contenders.
4. Community Park
Location:
200 Adams Street
Features:
Medium size (33.3 acres)
Multiple sports courts and fields (basketball, disc golf, tennis, baseball)
Walking paths and playgrounds
Restrooms and parking facilities
Why Community Park?
A safe choice, Community Park offers a balance of space and accessibility. Its central location and variety of existing recreational options make it a popular destination. The park’s layout provides ample space for a splash pad, and its existing infrastructure supports high visitor traffic. The mix of activities available would complement the splash pad, making the park a family-friendly hub. The park has ample parking, plenty of other amenities and is easily walkable friendly.
3. Duke Park
Location:
1670 Troy-Sidney Road
Features:
Large size (153.7 acres)
Extensive amenities including multiple sports fields (baseball, football, soccer)
Dog park, mountain bike facility
Walking paths and picnic shelters
Restrooms and parking facilities
Why Duke Park?
Another safe choice, Duke Park stands out due to its expansive area and diverse range of amenities. The park’s size allows for the integration of a large splash pad without compromising existing facilities. The presence of restrooms and ample parking makes it convenient for families. Additionally, the park already attracts a significant number of visitors for various activities, ensuring the splash pad would be well-utilized. It’s a bit out of the way for walkers and pedestrians, but if you are looking for a place to go when you are loading the kids in the minivan, one could do a lot worse than Duke Park.
2. Westbrook Park
Location:
831 Dartmouth Road
Features:
Medium size (10.7 acres)
Basketball
Playground
Proximity to residential areas
Why Westbrook Park?
Westbrook Park is a great candidate for a splash pad due to its location within a residential area, making it easily accessible for families. The park’s passive green space provides an open area suitable for the installation of a large splash pad. It could use a little help in the parking department, as there is no off-street parking for the facility. However, a splash pad could really be a shot in the arm for this little used (and little known) park.
1. McKaig & Race Park
Location:
822 McKaig Avenue
Features:
Small size (3.0 acres)
Walking Path
Proximity to residential areas
Why McKaig & Race Park?
Despite its smaller size, McKaig & Race Park is a strong contender for a splash pad due to its central location in a residential area. The park’s is largely undeveloped, other than a walking path and a picnic shelter. A splash pad could help give identity to this park while also providing walkable access to a number of city neighborhoods.
Wild Card. Prouty Plaza
Location:
Downtown Troy
Features:
Central downtown location
High visibility and accessibility
Space for community events
Proximity to local businesses and amenities
Why Prouty Plaza?
A true wild card, but why not? A concrete fountain park could be created at Prouty Plaza that could easily be transformed into a facility that can still have concerts and other events that draw people downtown. A smaller version of Atlanta’s Olympic Centennial Park could provide the inspiration for this concept.
The downtown has a ton of amenities for adults (this City can’t talk about downtown without talking about DORA) and adding something for kids might be something worth considering. Just imagine, get the kids a sweet treat at Grandpa Joe’s and have them burn off that energy at a fountain that doubles as a splash pad.
The installation of a large splash pad in Troy, Ohio, would significantly enhance the city’s recreational facilities, providing a safe and enjoyable water play area for children and families. After evaluating various parks, Duke Park, Community Park, Westbrook Park, McKaig & Race Park, Archer Park, and Prouty Plaza emerge as the top locations.
Each of these parks offers unique advantages, from size and amenities to accessibility and community engagement. By choosing one of these locations, the city can ensure that the splash pad becomes a cherished community feature, fostering outdoor play and family fun throughout the summer months and beyond.
So, what do you think? Cast your vote below. Leave your thoughts in the comment thread below!
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I’m with Casey on this. Herrlinger Park would be an appropriate location for our less financially privileged children as would somewhere near the Lincoln community center.
I love all the serious talk about splash pads!!!
I just want to put in my two cents about location. The people the splash pad will most positively impact are kids/families that cannot afford to go to the public pool and otherwise will be playing in the sprinkler. Don't put it so far that these families struggle to get there. Put it some place that an older sibling can walk a younger sibling to the park and they can play and come home. Duke is too far out for that community. The people that frequent Duke park can typically afford to visit a pool or splash pad elsewhere...and if those people can go out to Duke park, they can make it to a centralized park downtown...