Simplified: Toddler parents, rejoice! After a summer of being closed – and a major glow-up – the McKennan Park wading pool is back open starting Friday afternoon. Here's a look at some of the features in the brand new pool.

Why it matters

  • The new pool was initially discussed as part of a $68 million aquatics bond, and ultimately the $4.4 million wading pool in McKennan Park was funded through a combination of city funds and up to $2.5 million in private donations. Other upcoming pool improvements include a new Kuehn Park pool that's currently under construction and a new indoor aquatic center at Frank Olson Park.
  • The previous McKennan Park wading pool was built in 1971, and served families as a free city amenity for more than 50 years. The new pool and bath house will remain free to the public.
  • Features of the new pool include: zero-depth entry, an oversized two-person slide, spray features, shade, comfortable seating and turf within the fenced-in pool area. It's also about 500 square feet larger than the previous pool.
“This project preserves one of Sioux Falls’ most cherished summer traditions while creating a safer, more accessible and engaging experience for families to enjoy,” said Brett Kollars, assistant director of the city’s Parks and Recreation Department.

Tell me more

In addition to the new pool, the project also included construction of brand new bathrooms in a new building which will also feature a concessions stand that'll be run by Stensland Family Farms, said Tyler Landry, parks development specialist. The concessions won't be open right away, but are part of the plan for later this summer.

  • The project also includes improvements to the landscaping and a sculpture from local artist Darwin Wolf – which is expected to be installed at a later date.

The pool itself starts at zero depth and goes gradually to about 2 feet deep.

The project was enhanced thanks to a donation from the Pierce and Barbara McDowell facilitated by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation. The McDowells have lived in the McKennan Park neighborhood for 35 years.

"It's a great example of those private dollars coming alongside the public and making something we can all be proud of," said Andy Patterson, president and CEO of the community foundation.

Show me the pics

Here's a closer look at some of the features:

And here's an aerial shot from the city showing the whole thing:

What to know before you go

The pool will be open daily from 1 to 5 p.m. and 6:30 to 8 p.m. Admission is free.