The Lee County Commission approved a contract on Tuesday to replace splash pads at Lakes Regional Park, which were severely damaged by Hurricane Ian.
Archive video above: Parents rally for repairs to splash pad
The project, awarded to Gulfpoint Construction Company, Inc., will include design, permitting, demolition, and construction services, with a budget of up to $2.59 million.
According to county officials, the splash pads were among the most popular recreational features at Lakes Park before the storm, providing a vital outdoor play space for families. The new project will include updated water features, plumbing, electrical work, shade structures, signage, and fencing.
The funding comes from the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s Legislative Appropriations Program Fund and is part of the county’s broader efforts to restore storm-damaged public amenities. The commission emphasized that the repairs are a priority, given the high demand for recreational spaces for children in Lee County.
The approval comes after months of public calls for repairs, including a petition with more than 100 signatures urging the county to reopen the splash pads. Many families have expressed frustration over the delays, noting the limited number of recreational options for young children in the area.
With the contract now approved, the next steps will involve demolition of the existing structures and construction of the new splash pads. The county has not yet announced a timeline for completion but stated that updates will be provided as work progresses.
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