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Desert Hot Springs council selects splash pad design for John H. Furby Aquatic Center
Summary
After staff presented three splash-pad designs funded by CDBG, the council selected Option 1 (beach/palm theme) as its first choice and Option 3 (kaleidoscope) as the secondary choice; staff expects to proceed with plan check and release an RFP so construction can start after the swim season in September 2025.
City staff presented three splash pad design options for the John H. Furby Aquatic Center and asked council to indicate a first and second preference so staff could finalize plans and release a request for proposals.
The three options presented included a palm-tree/beach-inspired design, a "Revolutions" design with overhead features, and a "Kaleidoscope" design with central water features. Staff noted all three options are similar in construction cost and maintenance expectations and said the splash pad equipment will include water circulation and UV treatment to keep circulation and treatment consistent across options.
Council discussed maintenance concerns. "Splash pads have tended in the past to just be money pits, and they break down, and they don't work," Council Member Gardner said, urging selection of a less complex, lower-maintenance option. Staff told the council the three options compared similarly for estimated maintenance if equipment is properly maintained.
After discussion the council identified Option 1 as the first choice and Option 3 as the second choice; the clerk recorded the motion as passing. Staff said the project must clear CDBG release and plan-check steps and anticipates construction to begin after the swim season in September 2025.
