Splash Pad at Bielenberg Gets Lukewarm Reception from Woodbury City Council

A splash pad was discussed as part of a comprehensive look at the exterior for the Bielenberg Sports Center expansion project during a Woodbury City Council workshop Wednesday night.

While most aspects of the work—the plaza, outdoor rink and playground for kids of all abilities—were received favorably, the council expressed some concerns about the water feature.

The splash pad plans, as detailed by Stantec landscape architect John Slack, call for two areas, one for toddlers and another for older children and adults. It would be located north of the Madison’s Place playground.

Councilwoman Julie Ohs has long advocated for the splash pad, saying Wednesday it would make the new facility “more accessible, more inclusive.”

“That’s exactly what I had in mind,” she said of the plans.

But Councilman Christopher Burns reiterated that he’s “not a fan” of having a splash pad—which would likely cost about $500,000—as part of the overall plans for the sports center’s expansion.

Burns said a “sprinkler in the backyard” might serve the same purpose.

Councilwoman Amy Scoggins, too, said she had her doubts.

“I’m not really sold on it,” she said, adding that experiences with her own children showed they tired of other splash pads quickly.

Mayor Mary Giuliani Stephens and Councilman Paul Rebholz, meanwhile, said they don’t have strong feelings either way on a splash pad, and the city is set to recall the Bielenberg Sports Center Expansion Task Force to gather feedback on it.

Slack, the landscape architect, said the splash pad would likely be a popular feature.

“I think you’re going to create a parking problem,” he said.

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