Council accepts $120,000 Reno Rodeo Association grant to upgrade Idyllwild Park splash pad

The Reno City Council voted unanimously Feb. 25 to accept a $120,000 grant from the Reno Rodeo Association for design and construction work on the Idyllwild Park splash pad.

Landon Miller, fund development manager for Reno Parks and Recreation, said the money will cover design and build of improvements to the splash pad, including features to enhance accessibility for people using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. Miller told the council staff expects to complete design work over the coming months and begin construction after September, aiming to reopen the site in spring 2027.

Representatives of the Reno Rodeo Association described the gift as drawn from tip proceeds and an effort to support community projects. The association’s president said the funds will be used to add ADA access and to reconfigure the splash pad surface so people with mobility needs can safely share the water features.

Councilman (mover) made the motion to accept the funds; Councilman Reese seconded. The council voted unanimously to accept the grant. Councilmembers praised the donation and noted the broader importance of park improvements across wards.

The council directed staff to coordinate the design with the Access Advisory Committee and parks planning staff. According to Miller, the $120,000 fits the project scope and no additional city contribution is required at this time.

Next steps: Parks & Rec will proceed with design, coordinate ADA elements with stakeholders and return with construction timing and scope updates as design progresses.