Residents of Benito and the surrounding area have been waiting in great anticipation for the newest addition to the community, the splash park. From conception, this project hasn’t taken very long to get off the ground. In a short time, the splash park committee has been able to draft up plans, raise funds, break ground, and install water features.
“Fall 2023, the idea came forth that we should build a splash park,” said Benito Splash Park Committee Member Holly Kushniryk. “At first, it kind of came off like a joke for little old Benito, but then, after thinking about it, we thought, why not? What is stopping us? So the research began. Who knew there was so much to know about a splash park?
“We had to choose what company was best suited for our needs, wants and price point. In January 2024, we had our first in-person meeting with PlayQuest, and the fundraising and grant applications started. We worked with PlayQuest until June of this year to build the perfect park, picking the features, where we wanted them placed, everything down to the colours.
“On June 25, we broke ground,” said Kushniryk. “According to PlayQuest, it was the fastest they have ever seen a splash park go from planning stages to being built; most take three to five years, so we are feeling pretty accomplished. The water features were delivered on July 29, and cement was poured on August 22 after a long wait due to weather delays.
“Finally, on September 4, the water features were set up. As of September 16, the long-awaited hydro hookup took place. Technically, right now, it’s not quite operational yet. We have not had any water run through the whole thing as a finished project. Optimistically, if all goes well and the weather cooperates, we may be able to run it for a couple of days this fall yet, with a grand opening planned for this coming spring.
“We were trying so hard to have it up and running for early August, but unfortunately, there were just too many setbacks,” said Kushniryk. “Now it’s something fun to look forward to, to get us through a long, cold winter.
“Currently, it’s the smaller finishing touches needed to complete the project. The PlayQuest team has to come out and train our people in programming the computer aspect of the park, along with the seasonal maintenance. We need to tackle the landscaping, smoothing and levelling the ground, planting grass seed in the black dirt that surrounds the park before the snow falls, so come spring, everything should grow fresh and green.
“We plan to add some benches, picnic tables and garbage cans,” said Kushniryk. “And of course, we will be designing a sign this winter to showcase everyone who so graciously supported us in this huge project.”
The splash park has many fascinating and fun water features that are sure to be a splash with participants of all ages and abilities.
“This splash park is going to be so much fun,” said Kushniryk. “It has 11 main water features with 15 ground fountains and jets. Some highlights include the Dump Bucket, which has splash park users anticipating the bucket to fill while standing beneath and becoming soaked when it finally tips. The Water Fight tubes are sure to be a hit, for who doesn’t like spraying their friends? In Benito, there is somewhat of a rivalry between the Winnipeg Blue Bomber and Saskatchewan Roughrider fans, so you’ll note one water fight tube is blue and the other green just to have a little fun.
“The Cascade River will bring out the imagination of all ages with hands-on water exploration and interactive waves and orbs. And for those who don’t want the full water experience and just a quick cool off, we have a Mister, located on the edge of the park for easy access. As for the rest, you will just have to come out and have a look for yourself. Each water feature has its own interactive uniqueness that is sure to bring a smile and giggle.”
The splash park committee is still raising funds for the final stages of the project. Ideally, they would like to have some in reserves for maintenance and upkeep of the splash park going forward.
“Donations and fundraising have been going great,” said Kushniryk. “We haven’t quite reached our goal yet, so if you want to donate or have an amazing fundraising idea, feel free to reach out. Tax receipts are available.
“To date, we have raised just over $425,000. We are working on getting another $75,000. The park itself came in just under $460,000, but we wouldn’t mind doing some extra landscaping, purchasing some tables, benches, and, of course, it doesn’t hurt to have a (reserve) fund for future expenses. Nothing lasts forever, we all know that, so having a head start will be very beneficial. We already have ideas for the next projects, so the fundraising never stops.
“Naming rights have not yet been purchased,” said Kushniryk. “We are looking for $50,000 to secure naming rights indefinitely. So, if you want a permanent advertisement location on Hwy. No. 83 for your business or perhaps honour a loved one’s memory in a unique way, please think of the Benito Splash Park.”
The response to the splash park in Benito has been overwhelming, with more support for the project than objections.
“With the amount of phone calls and messages I have been receiving asking if the park is open yet, I would say the feedback is nothing short of amazing,” said Kushniryk. “People want a place to take their kids and grandkids to play that is safe, clean and fun. That is exactly why we built this splash park.
“The community of Benito has been totally supportive and asks daily when they can put their Speedos and bikinis on, so please don’t hit the ditch watching the show as you drive through town.
“There are still a lot of questions and a tiny bit of skepticism from a few surrounding this project, in which I am more than happy to answer or discuss,” said Kushniryk. “Please don’t hesitate to track me down. I truly believe this will be a great place for families and friends to come and spend quality time together, get outside away from the never-ending screens, and have some good old-fashioned fun in the sun.”