The wait for Newmarket’s first ever fully accessible splash pad is over as children got to experience it for the first time today, July 13.
The $1.4-million Dr. Margaret Arkinstall Park splash pad on Sawmill Valley Drive held a soft launch after a year of pandemic-related delays. The harvest-themed structures next to Terry Fox Public School have accessibility features such as non-slip surfaces, a carousel wide enough for wheelchairs, and braille on signage.
The municipality originally expected to have a summer 2020 launch, but the pandemic caused construction delays. Ward 6 Councillor Kelly Broome said there is a lot of excitement from her constituents about the splash pad.
“I really appreciate the patience from the residents because it took a really long time,” Broome said, adding the pad will be a lot closer than alternatives in the town. “This is really central to the south end of Newmarket.”
The pad includes several features shaped like fruits and vegetables, including an apple, strawberry and carrots. Other parts include a farm gate with a water curtain and a play area with different toys.
Resident Stephanie Young said her kids have eagerly awaited the opening.
“They’ve been watching it develop through the past several months. They’ve been excited to come out and play,” Young said. “Especially having it so close and convenient, it gives them something to do.”
Shawna Zorko said her son was also eager to start using the park.
“He was skipping the whole way here, he was so excited,” she said. “It’s just awesome that it’s inclusive and everyone can use it and it’s accessible to everyone.”
Broome said the municipality hopes to make the whole park fully accessible in the years to come, adding accessiblity to the basketball courts, playground and future ice rink.
“It’s something that Newmarket doesn’t have. Working really hard at being a fully accessible town,” Broome said. “Right now, we’re focused on Main Street, but this is a great platform to build on.”
The park could be closed for a time as it is in need of testing to ensure the water flows correctly, and Broome said she welcomes any feedback from residents. The town is planning a more formal grand opening in August.
Young said it is a good thing for kids to have for the summer.
“With the nice weather coming in, it will be something to look forward to,” she said. “Something refreshing to keep cool during the hot summer days.”
