The Splash Pad Is Here and Harrison Is Ready to Celebrate Together

Something families in Harrison have been asking for is finally here.

After years of planning, coordination, and steady work behind the scenes, the City’s new splash pad at the Harrison Community Center is ready to open, and the community is invited to be part of the moment that brings it to life.

On Thursday, May 21, from 5 to 8 p.m., residents are invited to a ribbon cutting celebration where the Mayor will officially activate the splash pad for the first time, marking the beginning of a new summer tradition in Harrison.

This is more than a new amenity. It is a visible step forward, something residents can experience, enjoy, and take pride in right away. As Public Works Director Andy Seiter shared, this project represents the first completed phase of a broader vision that has been in discussion for several years, and now, for the first time, the community can see and feel the results.

The splash pad itself was designed with families in mind. It includes separate areas for younger and older children, a central shaded gathering space with seating, and newly constructed restrooms that significantly upgrade the entire facility.

It is also intentionally designed for simplicity, safety, and long-term sustainability. Unlike recirculating systems, which require filtration, chemical treatment, and ongoing monitoring, this splash pad uses a fresh water, flow-through design. Water runs clean through the system and drains away, eliminating the need for complex treatment processes and reducing maintenance demands.

The push-button controller activates the system in timed intervals, so water only runs when families are actively using it. That approach helps manage overall water use while keeping the experience fresh, clean, and easy for everyone.

It is a practical design that balances cost, safety, and day-to-day reliability, while still delivering a high-quality experience for the community. But what makes this project especially meaningful is how it fits into everything else happening in Harrison.

The splash pad is located right alongside existing community spaces, including the amphitheater, ball fields, and picnic areas. That means families attending summer concerts, games, or community events now have another way to spend time together, especially on the hottest days of the season.

It turns a single event into a full evening. It gives younger siblings something to do during games. It creates a place to gather, cool off, and stay longer.

In short, it adds life to what is already here in Harrison!.

The ribbon cutting celebration on May 21 is designed to reflect that same energy. The evening will include music from a DJ, local food vendors, and plenty of space for families to explore and enjoy the new facility together.

This event has been a collaborative effort across departments, with Public Works, Parks and Recreation, and City leadership all working together to bring it to life.

And that collaboration shows up in the result.

The splash pad is not just a project that was completed. It is something the City can point to and say, this is what happens when we follow through, when we invest thoughtfully, and when we build with the community in mind.

As Andy put it, this is something residents can look at and feel proud of. And on May 21, we can all gather together to celebrate our community.

A ribbon is cut. A button is pressed. Water starts flowing and summer in Harrison officially begins!