Dundee Township Park District opens first spray park in West Dundee

An outdoor play area that sprays water and allows kids to run through and redirect water streams is now open in West Dundee.

The Dundee Township Park District's first spray park was recently installed at Huffman Park, 811 Tartans Drive, Deputy Director Dave Peterson said. The 962-square-foot play area contains a variety of water features that serve as an alternative to a regular playground and the other amenities found in the park, he said.

Since its grand opening July 20, Peterson said, the $200,000 spray park, also known as a splash pad, has become a gathering place for local families. He said he often witnesses dozens of kids playing at a time, while parents watch from the sidelines.

"It's really created a nice community-type facility," Peterson said. "A lot of parents will sit under trees or on benches and socialize while their children play in a safe facility and cool off in the hot weather."

The spray park, which will typically open for the season Memorial Day weekend, operates from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day through Sept. 30. To save water, the splash pad turns off after 10 minutes if it is not in use, Peterson said.

Though kids of all ages can use the play area, he added, the intended audience is for children up to age 8.

The majority of the spray park costs were funded by the park district's capital improvement fund, though West Dundee did contribute $40,000 in land cash donation funds.

Though nothing has been set in stone, Peterson said, officials may consider adding another spray park next fiscal year on the east side of the park district.

"(The Huffman Park) spray park has been very well received. We're getting great feedback from parents," he said. "And for the kids, it allows some interactive play and gives them a chance to play among each other."