New Madras splash park set to open next Saturday

Madras Mayor Richard Ladeby will cut the ribbon at the grand opening of the city’s long-awaited splash park in Sahalee Park next Saturday at 9 a.m. Two of the project’s donors, the Bean Foundation and Keith Manufacturing, will be providing free snow cones to the first 500 kids who show up.

The splash park was just an idea in the minds of a few community members who back in 2015 approached the city with a sizable donation, on the condition that the city match the funding and seek additional funding from the community at large.

“Donations came pouring in from our community,” stated Public Works Director Jeff Hurd . ” There were personal donations, community fundraisers, and local businesses made donations. We received donations from $5.00 to $45,000. “

During the fundraising efforts, a local family suffered the loss of their 4-month-old son, Ethan Stovall . His family encouraged donations be made to the Splash Park in Ethan’s honor.

Hence, the idea was formed about naming the splash park in Ethan’s honor and other children who had been lost too soon. On Saturday , the community will cut the ribbon on a splash park they helped bring to fruition.

“We are so proud of everyone who helped make this dream a reality for our community,” Ladeby said. “This is a great asset to our park and something all children can enjoy.”

The splash park will be open May through September, typically 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, officials said.