News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The City of Fredericton’s much-anticipated Wilmot Park Splash Pad has officially opened. 

The $1.3 million project was made possible through an $825,000 capital investment by the City of Fredericton, a $350,000 investment from the provincial government, and a $131,733 grant from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency under the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program.

Located near the corner of Woodstock Road and Odell Avenue, the outdoor aquatic facility is intended to promote safe play and interactivity among children of all ages.

“The provincial government is proud to be a partner in this important recreational community project for Wilmot Park and the City of Fredericton,” said Families and Children Minister Stephen Horsman. “Our investment will bring families and residents together to see children participate in healthy activities every summer at this state-of-the-art facility.”

Horsman spoke on behalf of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Donald Arseneault, who is also minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation.

“This is a really exciting day for Fredericton,” Mayor Mike O’Brien added. “We want to thank our funding partners, the federal and provincial governments, for helping make this park a reality. But more importantly, we want to thank the children of Fredericton who were instrumental in the design of the splash pad you see today. It was through their creative imaginations that we have been able to create an interactive recreational space for kids to enjoy for many years to come.”

The City of Fredericton unveiled conceptual plans for the facility in summer 2015 after public consultation by Trace Planning and Design.

Site preparation took place in fall 2015, with the remainder of construction completed this past spring and summer. The splash pad was designed by Trace Planning and Design and constructed by King Construction. CBCL was responsible for engineering work on the project.

The park features multi-activity spray and splash components, designated shallow areas, barrier-free access, seating, sun shades, and an on-site washroom.

The facility will be open daily from 10 a.m. to dusk until Sept. 18, and then weekends until Thanksgiving Day (weather permitting). Users are reminded to respect posted parking signs and regulations, and to use designated crosswalks en route to and from the park. 

The Wilmot Park Splash Pad replaces the former wading pool.

More information is available online.