As of this point in time, work on the MLK basin is 90% complete, and The City is planning on opening the splash pad for this coming spring season. When complete, the splash pad will feature numerous water jets that will also be illuminated with LED lighting. The cutting edge technology will provide fun filled cooling elements for visitors and impressive lighting visuals for passersby.
On top of the spray jets and colorful lighting, the splash pad walls have been cut down to a smaller height by The City, and the Olmsted Conservancy has added coping caps so that people can sit comfortably on top of the walls. Olmsted is also resetting the flights of stairs leading to the basin for safe access, and will be enhancing landscaping features at the entrances.
As for nearby amenities, the MLK casino will be open year ’round in order to accommodate the splash pad in the warmer months and skating during the winter season. The City will be replacing the roof and addressing masonry repairs, while at the same time performing some spring cleaning, as in restroom facilities.
The longterm goal is to reconstruct the French doors that look out onto the basin. It is also anticipated that there will eventually be a new café, locker rooms and restrooms, a concession stand and ice skating rentals.
Tentative hours are scheduled for 11am to 7pm.
To learn more about the history of the project see BRO update from May, 2012, and history of the project from September 2011.