During their January 12 meeting, Meaford council approved the award of contract to Open Space Solutions, for the supply and installation of a new splash pad at McCarroll Park, which submitted the only bid on the project, in the amount of $332,261.25.
“The splash pad project is moving forward with the construction of a new splash pad at McCarroll Park to provide improved recreational opportunities and outdoor spaces for families and residents. The project has been included in the 2025 Capital Budget and is expected to be completed in the spring of 2026. Work was completed this fall to relocate the existing playground equipment and associated components from the previous location to the west side of the park, aligning with the McCarroll Park Master Plan to prepare for the splash pad construction,” staff noted in their report to council.
The municipality is budgeting approximately $460,000 for the full cost of the project including removal of the previous equipment.
“Council approved a $334,000 capital budget for 2025 based on preliminary estimates. However, the approved budget excludes several cost elements now required to deliver the full scope of the project which included the playground relocation, funding shortfalls, communications, and community engagement. The total budget for the project has been updated to reflect the true cost of the project in the amount of $459,400,” staff advised.
Open Space Solutions will provide all required design, supply, and installation services for the completion of the project.
Deputy Mayor Shirley Keaveney asked for clarification from staff regarding the increase in cost from the $334,000 that council had previously budgeted for 2025.
“I am really delighted to see this project going forward, but there is quite a difference from the final figure of $459,400 to the $334,000 budget,” Keaveney noted.
Staff noted that initial estimates were based on a smaller splash pad than the existing pad, however as the project evolved, including planning for the same size of splash pad, the budget was revised.
According to the staff report, the project is expected to be completed by June in time for the summer season.
“Public engagement and final design work will follow upon the award of the contract and consultation with Open Space Solutions, with the splash pad construction targeted for spring 2026 and an opening event in June,” staff advised in their report.
Municipal staff told council in their report that “further public engagement on splash pad design is planned for early winter upon award of the splash pad construction. Staff will communicate construction updates, timelines, and community involvement opportunities through the Municipality’s established public communication channels, leading up to the planned grand opening in June 2026 as it becomes available.”
Council voted 7-0 in favour of awarding the contract.
