Kilcona Park, Winnipeg’s largest park for dogs, could see a splash pad cooling feature installed should renovation plans and fundraising efforts prove successful.
According to the Winnipeg Sun, the Kilcona Dog Park Club hopes to secure provincial and city grants to install a canine splash pad, wash/shower station, and drinking water fountain in addition to other features.
If approved by city hall, the splash pad would be the first of its kind in Canada, said Donna Henry, president of the club in the report.
“Winnipeg is quite a bit behind in developing off-leash areas,” she added, noting many of these types of splash pads are operating in the United States.
Although the project’s costs are still being worked out, the splash pad kit is estimated to cost $50,000 prior to installation, while the water fountain feature is expected to cost approximately $25,000 to connect the supply and add fixtures. To help offset the splash pad’s operating costs, user fees will be considered.
According to the report, Winnipeg’s number of household canines is about 110,000, which is just shy of its 124,000 children under age 14. That said, the club feels the park renovations are worthwhile.
The proposal is currently in the early stages, with several planning documents and city approvals still required.
