researchplanningpolicyadvocacy
How do cities plan and site new splash pads?
Quick answer
Cities follow a 5-step process: parks master-plan demand analysis, equity and walkshed mapping to identify underserved areas, site feasibility (water, sewer, ADA access, drainage), community input meetings, and funding alignment. From first idea to ribbon-cutting typically takes 18-36 months.
Most cities incorporate splash pads into their parks-and-rec master plan, which is updated every 5-10 years. Step 1: demand analysis using survey data, demographic projections, and walkshed mapping to find neighborhoods with kids under 12 and no nearby water feature. Step 2: equity overlay — Trust for Public Land's ParkScore methodology maps income and access disparities to prioritize underserved areas. Step 3: site feasibility — engineers verify available water-supply pressure, sanitary sewer capacity for drain-to-waste systems, ADA-accessible routes, drainage slope, and shade/restroom proximity. Step 4: community engagement — public meetings, online surveys, and council workshops refine the design and address noise, traffic, and parking concerns. Step 5: funding — capital budget, parks bond, grants, and donor matching are stitched together. From master-plan inclusion to ribbon-cutting averages 18-36 months, longer if voter approval or major utility upgrades are needed.