Developer outlines fast-track options for Chesapeake Beach water park; council weighs timing and budget risks

Mark Paddock, principal of Paddock Pool Company, told the Town Council on June 12 that a demolition and rebuild of the town’s closed water park is feasible on an accelerated timetable if the town starts demolition this summer.

Paddock said his team’s initial investigative work — including selective demolition, geotechnical and structural testing — shows the site’s timber piling foundation is largely sound and can support a rebuilt facility. He presented two concepts: “Concept A,” a close-to-original rebuild that Paddock described as the more affordable option, and “Concept B,” a larger layout with expanded slides, a spray ground and shaded adult seating. Paddock said demolition bids for the existing park were in the mid-$600,000 range and that faster construction could reduce price escalation and schedule risk.

Why it matters: the water park is a visible town amenity and has been closed because of safety and deterioration. The developer argued that starting demolition now preserves an outside chance of opening in June 2026, but several council members said they wanted a clearer, firm construction budget before committing to demolition.

Most important details

- Investigation results: Paddock said pilings are salt-treated and, where tested, solid; a geotechnical report found the existing foundation suitable to support increased loads for another 30–40 years. He said some deep foundation work will still be needed in concentrated areas.

- Demolition and schedule: Paddock presented three demolition bids he described as representative: about $625,000, $633,000 (his estimate), and $685,000. He estimated demolition would take six to eight weeks and that, if demolition starts this summer and design continues concurrently, his team could provide a priced design for a baseline concept within four to five weeks.

- Two concepts: Concept A keeps the park’s existing footprint with modest changes (larger pool shape, removed ramp, added lifts to meet ADA access, expanded deck and cabanas). Concept B includes larger slides, a spray ground replacing a waiting pool, more adult seating and added mechanical upgrades such as variable frequency drives to change lazy-river speed.

- Mechanical and reuse items: Paddock’s team identified electrical switchgear in good condition that could be reused, potentially saving procurement lead time. He said pumps, filtration, piping and the mechanical room would be replaced or modernized and that measures would be taken to prevent future pipe settlement and leakage.

- Operations and capacity:…