Ground has been ceremonially broken for a $1.5 million nature-inspired water play project in Lexington’s East End Neighborhood. Spash! will be a part of Charles Young Park. This area is named for the first African American to achieve the rank of Colonel in the U.S. Army. Young was born in Mays Lick Kentucky. Charles Fields serves on the Charles Young Advisory Board. Fields said most parks are built for children.
“We need to enrich what they’ve got to use, give them the amenities that you see are going to take place here because, when you don’t have the amenities, you have what we call a short vision of what you can be. And if we don’t get our children to see those visions and grow them, shame on us,” said Fields.
Using recirculating water, the water play area will include water bubbling up from stones, crossing water arches, and a constant shallow stream surrounded by steppingstones and artificial turf.
Lexington Parks and Recreation Director Monica Conrad said Splash! will be designed for kids of all ages and abilities.
“Not only experience the sensory aspect of water in a downtown atmosphere, but also educational opportunities about sustainability, the environment,” said Conrad.
$1.3 million in private funding will go toward the construction of Splash! Blue Grass Community Foundation CEO Lisa Adkins said Splash! points to generosity, vibrancy, community engagement, and equity. Support also came from the American Water Charitable Foundation.
It’s anticipated to open in the spring of 2023.