Splash Pad Project

Project Status: Construction in progress
Expected Completion: September 2026
Contractor: Stempski Kelly Associates

The Town of Midland is moving 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 new splash pad will be located in Little Lake Park. The project features a fully interactive and accessible splash pad connected by pathways to existing trails along Little Lake and features for families to enjoy this new aquatic play area. The project will include the installation of:

a new water service from Little Lake Park Road to the washroom near the volleyball courts off The Martels Lane
new pathway connections between the splash pad, washroom, and pavilion
new benches and landscape features around the splash pad area

Latest Project Update

Posted September 4, 2026

A grand opening event is planned for Friday, September 11, at 11am. The Little Lake Park east washroom remains closed throughout the long weekend due to splash pad construction. The west and central washrooms will remain open and available for public use during this time. Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Previous Updates

Posted September 3, 2026

The Little Lake Park east washroom is closed effective immediately and will remain closed throughout the long weekend due to splash pad construction. The west and central washrooms will remain open and available for public use during this time. Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Work continues on the splash pad, and the estimated completion date remains mid-September.

Posted August 26, 2026

Construction of the splash pad is taking longer than originally anticipated due to delays on site. As a result, the estimated completion date has moved from the end of August to mid-September.

Work continues on site, and the project team is working closely with the contractor to complete the remaining construction activities as efficiently as possible while ensuring all work meets required quality and safety standards.

We understand this revised timeline may be disappointing for residents and families who are looking forward to using the splash pad. We appreciate the community's patience and will continue to provide updates as key milestones are reached.

The project timeline below has been updated accordingly.

Posted August 5, 2026

The contractor is pouring more concrete this week for the splash pad and backfilling around the splash pad area.

Posted July 23, 2026

The east parking lot in Little Lake Park and the associated roadway leading to it will be closed Monday, July 27, through Thursday, July 30, due to construction activities for the splash pad. Please park in other parking lots within Little Lake Park and use the trail networks to access park amenities including the playground, dog park, community garden, and volleyball courts. Access to the boat launch will be closed due to the road closure.

Aerial map of Little Lake Park showing temporary construction closures from July 27 to 30. The map highlights a splash pad construction site, closed roadways and parking areas, alternate parking locations, the boat launch, and the Little Lake Park trail, with Little Lake visible along the left side.

Posted July 15, 2026

Construction of the pad has commenced, and plumbing will be starting this week.

Posted June 17, 2026

Construction will begin on June 22, 2026, with removals of sand/fill and prep work for concrete. There will be six volleyball courts out of service while the project is being completed, leaving three in service throughout the splash pad construction. The volleyball club has been notified accordingly. Once the splash pad project is complete in August, all six volleyball courts will have new nets and poles.

Budget

Town Council approved a total budget of $1,250,000 for this project. $122,800 is 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 is being funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation grant of $188,000.

Project Timeline

Future dates are subject to change.

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

A grand opening event is planned for Friday, September 11, at 11am.

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 feasibility 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

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:

Central & Walkable Location

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.

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.

Strong Community Preference

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.

Little Lake Park splash pad concept sketch (Splash Pad Feasibility Study)