Reagan Park Splashpark opened early this year

Apr. 5—Kids attending Palestine "Eclipse at Reagan Park" with their families can enjoy the Reagan Park Splashpark. The free, water-enhanced playground opened early this year and can be enjoyed by crowds attending Monday's cosmic event.

The water features in the park were turned on Thursday, April 4, which is more than a month earlier than normal. The community splash pad typically opens on Memorial Day weekend and is open for water play until Labor Day weekend.

"The splash pad was opened early so that the community has something extra to do with their kids," said Patsy Smith, Parks & Recreation Director for the City of Palestine. "Our weather is already getting warm so what better way to cool off than to have a run through at the splash pad. We are going to leave the splash pad open longer as well."

According to Smith, the splash pad will be open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

"Opening the splash pad earlier in the year and extending it past August is a fantastic asset for our community, especially considering the warm weather conditions," said City Manager Teresa Herrera. "By providing this early access to the splash pad, we are creating a valuable resource for children to play and enjoy during hot days. Children love water play, and having the splash pad available early on allows them to cool off and have fun during the warmer months.

"It provides a safe and interactive environment for them to engage in water play activities, which are not only enjoyable but also promote physical activity and social interaction. This can be particularly beneficial during school breaks or weekends when children have more free time to spend outdoors."

The colorful railroad-themed, splash-pad area was added to Reagan Park in 2012.

In recent years, upgrades have been made throughout the park including new benches and landscaping.

Palestine's Parks and Recreation Department maintains the playground and equipment year round. The park is at Crockett Road and Main Street.

The 16.1-acre park also features six lighted tennis courts, two playgrounds, three large picnic shelters, one bandstand, one sand volleyball court and two public restrooms.

For information, call the city of Palestine's Community Services Department at 903-731-8435 or Palestine YMCA at 903-729-3139.

The municipal pool schedule can be found at the following link: www.cityofpalestinetx.com.