MARSHALL — A community donor has pledged up to $100,000 to enhance Marshall’s new Aquatic Center, specifically its splash pad, transforming it into a standout feature.
During Tuesday’s meeting, the Marshall City Council discussed the proposal to incorporate programmable water jets into the splash pad. Parks and Recreation Superintendent Preston Stensrud described the enhancement as elevating the splash pad from basic to premium quality.
The anonymous donation will cover the $18,000 cost for engineering and design updates, with additional funds allocated for the splash pad’s enhancements. Stockwell Engineers and Water Technology, Inc. have been tasked with the design that will make the splash pad unique with water valves that control spray patterns and heights, creating dynamic water displays.
David Locke of Stockwell Engineers and Doug Whiteaker, an aquatics designer from Water Technology, Inc., presented the proposed updates. They highlighted the low-maintenance and easy-to-program features of the new valves.
In addition to the splash pad updates, planning for the Aquatic Center is on schedule, with the project expected to go out for bids this summer. The City Council approved the updated design agreement with Stockwell Engineers.
The new Aquatic Center, funded by an $18.3 million local sales tax extension approved in a 2023 referendum, has an estimated base cost of $18.95 million, plus $1.47 million in potential bid alternates. The project is set to break ground this summer.
Stensrud emphasized strong community support, noting that donations and commitments for the splash pad and the overall project are nearing $600,000. He expressed confidence in reaching the goal of $1 million in community sponsorships, particularly as construction progresses and community engagement increases.
