Board asks staff to explore pausing or slowing splash-pad work while pool operates

Board members expressed concern that active splash-pad construction adjacent to the pool could produce noise and dust that would degrade visitor experience. Some board members urged pausing splash-pad work until after Labor Day; others favored a compromise of limiting heavy work to weekdays or non-peak hours so the pool could operate evenings and weekends.

The board directed staff to discuss possibilities with Palmer/Thrasher and report back with the risks and contract implications; staff noted a timeline trade-off because pausing work could push splash-pad completion into fall, and contractors may have scheduling and mobilization constraints. "If this is something the board wants to do, we need to let her know ASAP so she can discuss with Thrasher," a board member said, referencing staff communications with the subcontractor.

Why it matters: timing decisions affect public experience, contractor schedules and the city’s obligations under contract; a pause could reduce visitor complaints but may extend project timelines.

What’s next: staff will report feasibility and any cost or schedule implications at the special meeting and the June board meeting.