Wichita park and recreation officials said Wednesday that the city’s swimming pools and splash pads are not expected to open for this summer.
There is still uncertainty over the coronavirus, and the city is looking at a budget shortfall of $12 million for this year along with a $16 million shortfall for 2021. The shortfall is a result of the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
In statements on social media, park and recreation officials said keeping the pools and splash pads closed this year would allow renovations to continue on the pools so they can be ready for the 2021 swim season.
The city’s Aquatics Master Plan is providing for $22 million in improvements over two years. Phase two is being done this year with renovations to the Minisa and Harvest Park pools, and the Linwood Park pool will be converted into a water playground. Phase three will provide for improvements at the College Hill Park pool and water playgrounds for Harrison and Planeview parks.
The plan will renovate the Aley, College Hill, Harvest, McAdams, Minisa and Orchard pools. Splash pads will replace the pools for Boston, Edgemoor, Evergreen, Harrison, Linwood and Planeview.
