By Courtney Pannell-Smith
From neighborhood parks to bustling city centers, splash pads are becoming a staple of summer recreation. These additions to recreational areas offer families safe, affordable ways to cool off while strengthening community ties. While surrounding areas like Whitehouse and Troup have already established pad sites, Arp is positioning itself to bring the same service to its community.
So, what are the benefits of a community splash pad? First off is safety. Unlike traditional swimming pools, there is very little risk of drowning, eliminating the need for a lifeguard. Additionally, these pad sites often feature non-slip flooring to reduce injuries. Secondly, the presence of a splash pad encourages community engagement by giving families and neighbors a place to gather while children stay active. Third of all, most splash pads are available for free or low-cost, providing accessible recreation for all income levels.
After seeing the positive impact splash pads have made in surrounding communities, Mayor Terry Lowry believes the inclusion of a splash pad would “greatly benefit the community by providing a safe and fun recreational space for families, especially in the hot summer months. It will also be a great draw for visitors.”
The City of Arp is asking for help from the local community. This has been in the works for a few years now, however, the emergence of COVID-19 unfortunately halted the original project. For those who previously donated, those funds are still being held strictly for this purpose.
There has been significant progress toward reaching the city’s financial goal, but there are still ways to go. While the city will fund a portion, Mayor Lowry said donations from the community are “crucial to making it happen.”
To raise additional funds, the city is selling engraved bricks for $40. The engraving can include your name, a loved one’s name, or that of a business/organization. Forms can be picked up at Arp City Hall or requested by emailing t.pritchett@cityofarptx.net.
To learn more or make a donation on behalf of a business, contact Arp City Hall at 903-859-6131 or email Mayor Terry Lowry at t.lowry@cityofarptx.net.
