Gemini Center natatorium near completion; mayor says Gemini splash pad will not reopen this June

The city of Fairview Park is moving toward reopening the Gemini Center natatorium, but the facility’s adjacent splash pad will not return to service this summer, Mayor Bill Schneider told council on June 1.

"The splash pad at the Gemini will not be open with the Nanitorium this June," Schneider said, citing the pad’s age, broken underground pipes, construction egress needs and compliance with state safety rules. He referenced House Bill 179 (often called McKenna’s law), which he said "mandates pressure testing and velocity control of spray nozzles in all splash pad recreation areas." The mayor added that the natatorium competition pool has been filled and that final Ohio Department of Health inspections are expected within about a week.

Council heard details from recreation staff in committee earlier: Director Kemp and the owner’s representative reported construction is wrapping up, staff training is underway and the city is aiming to hire up to 50 lifeguards (28 trained so far). The city plans a membership drive from June 15 through July 15 offering two free months to new members, and a three-day Wave Fest opening celebration on June 26–29 for residents and members.

Schneider suggested reimagining the splash pad area as a non-water recreation space unless a separate budget is allocated. He said the decision rests on practical constraints posed by the natatorium remodel and safety compliance obligations.