Portsmouth council advances Market Square splash pad to first reading with modified funding package

The Portsmouth City Council voted to move legislation for a Market Square Park splash pad to the council agenda for first reading, approving a modified funding proposal that would split the city’s contribution into three parts: a $125,000 grant, a $125,000 0% loan over 10 years and a $125,000 water credit.

Council members said the item will go through all three readings with no emergency language; the council asked City Attorney John to draft ordinance language and circulate it to members before the packet is issued. The motion to accept the modification passed on a roll-call vote (5–1).

Why it matters: Market Square Park has become a focal point for downtown events, including Winterfest, and proponents say a splash pad would extend visitor activity into warmer months and support downtown businesses. Opponents and some council members raised questions about prioritizing funds for a privately operated splash pad instead of additional city-owned parks and facilities, including McKinley Pool.

Key facts: The applicant initially…