Millennium Park will get a new Splash Pad in the spring, but it will cost more than what was budgeted. The Homewood-Flossmoor Park District is expected to approve a budget amendment at its Dec. 19 board meeting for another $100,000 to be added to the $200,000 already allocated for the project.
the water at the H-F
Park District Splash Pad
in 2017. (Chronicle file
photo)
Millennium Park will get a new Splash Pad in the spring, but it will cost more than what was budgeted.
The Homewood-Flossmoor Park District is expected to approve a budget amendment at its Dec. 19 board meeting for another $100,000 to be added to the $200,000 already allocated for the project.
Park District Executive Director Debbie Kopas told commissioners the general fund balance is healthy and would be able to support the $100,000 transfer.
The Splash Pad, a bubbling water fountain designed for young children, needs to be replaced. The equipment is now 17 years old and has served beyond its expected life. Over the past few summers, staff has dealt with numerous repairs.
The inner workings of the Splash Pad will be replaced, it will get a new concrete pad and the various fountains that delight little ones will be new.
For nearly two years, the park board has planned to replace the Splash Pad. In June, commissioners were given a project estimate of $200,000 by architects. When bids came in high several months ago, design modifications were made. The park district solicited bids a second time, but the cost was still more than $100,000 over the estimate.
At its committee meeting Tuesday, Dec. 5, park commissioners decided to spend money in reserve to cover the additional charges.
“I don’t want (the Splash Pad) to feel less than what we have now,” said Commissioner Brent Bachus. He was assured that the plans will not change dramatically. When the Splash Pad opens for 2018, residents will see new features.
Doug Boehm, superintendent of parks and planning, said he hopes work can begin in early spring. It is expected to take four to six weeks to complete the project. If all goes well, and there are no weather delays, Boehm expects the new Splash Pad will be open for Memorial Day.