GRAND OPENING - FEBRUARY 2024
BEHIND THE SCENES - RENOVATING BAYFRONT SPLASH PAD & PLAYGROUND
Behind the Scenes - September 2023:
Have you ever wondered how intricate designs are inlaid into concrete? First, the base layer of concrete is troweled onto the surface. When the concrete reaches just the right stage of dryness, a color hardener and a release agent are added to the surface. Timing is everything - at just the right moment, workers begin stamping the surface by first laying the stamp template, carefully aligning it, and evenly stamping with their feet. It's a fascinating process!
September 18, 2023 - Shiver me timbers! The new shipwreck-themed playground and splash pad at Bayfront Park are looking great! Even after Hurricane Idalia, the construction site sustained minimal damage thanks to the newly raised elevation of the area, and the grand opening is still on track for this Fall.
Padded rubber safety surfacing is being installed to lessen the impact of falls, and musical instruments have been added for creative auditory play. The eye-catching coral gateway, which will be lit in the evenings, has been placed, and cargo net fencing surrounds the play area.
The animal sculptures that were part of the original Steigerwaldt-Jockey Children's Fountain have been thoughtfully placed throughout the play area's landscaping and will soon be restored by the artist. Next up will be the installation of the patio and shade sails that will cover it!
July 17 - 2023 - Shade sails have started going up over the playground, and fun features, including the crow's nest, pirate ship, and sculptural elements, such as the Kraken, have been installed.
Next will be installing the final shade sails above the splash pad, pouring the sidewalk concrete and foundations for the coral archway at the park entrance, and installing the underdrain system in the playground area. The new splash pad system will allow children to control the water flow, and the entire park area will be ADA-compatible.
June 28, 2023 - The concrete pad for the splash pad was poured along with the foundations for the shade structures and playground sculptures. The octagonal shelter was installed to allow for shaded seating for park guests. Finally, parts of the playground are being installed, including the coral reef entrance, the crow’s nest, and the pirate ship.
April 3, 2023 - Demolition efforts are nearly complete at the Bayfront Park renovation project. Fill is being imported to bring the splash pad up to the same grade as the playground which will create one unified space for the future playground and splash pad.
February 6, 2023 -Construction begins this month on the all-new playground and splash pad combination.
The whimsical animal statues, longtime fixtures at the old splash pad and part of the City's extensive Public Art collection, will be incorporated into the play area landscaping.
Early 2024 - The Final Touches
