Located close to downtown and surrounding neighbourhoods, Little Lake Park is easily accessible on foot, by bike, and by vehicle, making it a true community destination.
Splash Pad
Project Status: Completed
Contractor: Stempski Kelly Associates
The Town of Midland opened its first public splash pad on September 11, 2026. The fully interactive and accessible splash padsplash pad is located in Little Lake Park, and is connected by pathways to existing trails along Little Lake and features for families to enjoy this new aquatic play area.
Splash Pad Rules
- no attendant on duty; use at own risk
- all children must be supervised by an adult
- have fun & be respectful to others
- no running or rough play
- no food, beverage or glass containers on splash pad
- children in diapers must wear a swim diaper
- persons with infectious or communicable disease or open cuts cannot use the splash pad
- the splash pad area is a smoke-free zone
- no soap products
- no pets
- no bikes, scooter, rollerblades, or skateboards
- when thunder and/or lightning is present, evacuate the splash pad immediately and seek shelter. patrons must wait 30 minutes after the last sign of thunder and/or lightning before returning
- splash pad cannot be reservced for private parties or groups
- vandals will be prosecuted
Location Benefits
Little Lake Park was selected as the preferred location for Midland’s first splash pad following detailed technical review and strong community support. Key reasons include:
Existing Amenities That Support Families
The park already includes washrooms, playgrounds, trails, seating, shade, parking, and nearby recreation facilities—critical amenities that support safe and comfortable splash pad use.
Space for a Multi‑Age, Inclusive Design
Little Lake Park can accommodate a larger splash pad with multiple play zones, allowing toddlers, children, caregivers, and older users to enjoy the space together.
Public engagement showed clear support for Little Lake Park as the splash pad location, with residents valuing its proximity to other recreational and cultural attractions.
Efficient and Cost‑Effective Implementation
Existing infrastructure reduces the need for new servicing, helping manage construction costs and long‑term operations while minimizing disruption to the park.
Natural Fit Within an Active Park Hub
The splash pad will complement an already vibrant park environment that includes sports, culture, waterfront access, and year‑round activity—enhancing Little Lake Park as a focal point for community life.
Splash Pad Project Background
Splash pads were identified as a top priority recreational amenity in the Town’s Parks and Trails Master Plan (2019) and have consistently been requested by residents as a missing facility in Midland. Unlike traditional pools, splash pads provide zero‑depth, barrier‑free water play, making them accessible to children of all abilities, caregivers, seniors, and visitors. They also support social interaction, outdoor activity, and inclusive play during the summer months.
The Town moved forward with the construction of its first public splash pad following the completion of a comprehensive Splash Pad Feasibility Study in early 2025. The study was undertaken to confirm community need, evaluate potential locations, and guide the design, budget, and implementation of a safe, inclusive, and sustainable recreational facility. The study confirmed strong public interest in a splash pad that is:
- Centrally located and walkable
- Accessible to users of all ages and abilities
- Located near washrooms, seating, and shade
- Designed with multiple play zones to support different age groups
Project Budget
Town Council approved a total budget of $1,250,000 for this project. $122,800 was funded from development charges. This project was determined to have a growth-related element and is therefore eligible to be partially funded from development charges.
A portion of the splash pad project was being funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation grant of $188,000.
Project Timeline
November 5, 2024: Splash Pad Feasibility Study Public Info Centre
The Town obtained resident feedback on the splash pad location and concept development.
February 2025: Feasibility Study Completed
The Town received the feasibility study report and reviewed location and budget for the project.
January 2026: Procurement Completed
Stempski Kelly Associates is designing and constructing Midland's splash pad.
March 25 to April 1, 2026: Splash Pad Design Engagement
Town staff engaged with residents on the splash pad design and obtained feedback in person at a Public Information Centre (PIC) on March 25. An online feedback form remained open until April 1, 2026. View the PIC materials.
June to September 2026: Construction
During construction, delays are expected on Little Lake Park Road and the park's east parking lot and nearby trails. Only three volleyball courts will remain in service throughout the splash pad construction; all six volleyball courts will have new nets and poles upon project completion.
September 11: Grand Opening
MPP Jill Dunlop, Mayor Bill Gordon, CAO Rhonda Bunn, members of Midland Town Council, and Town staff cut the ribbon to officially open Midland's first public splash pad at Little Lake Park | September 11, 2026