Riverton to open farm-themed splash park

RIVERTON — Grandpa won't be the only one cranking up sprinklers on the farm to keep the little ones cool this summer.

On Saturday, Riverton city officials will open their own farm-themed water park for young children.

"It's not huge," said Sheril Garn, city recreational director. "It's basically a glorified shower and bath park."

Water-gushing features in the several-acre park include a nostalgic tractor, water tank and barn structure.

"We went with that theme because the land used to be a farm," Garn said. "It was fitting."

The city paid about $2 million for the Old Farm Splash Park.

Part of the cost went into installing a soft play surface below the wet park equipment. The anti-fungal mats are designed to prevent rambunctious kids from getting scrapes and bruises while running and wrestling, according to the Draper-based mat maker Sof'Solutions.

Water features in the park, designed for children 8 years old and younger, will run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day.

The city will host a free fishing derby at the city fish pond adjacent to the Old Farm Splash Park from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday. At noon, city officials will cut a ceremonial ribbon at the splash park and crank open dozens of water-spewing valves.

Those planning to attend Saturday's grand opening should expect of high of 73 degrees with a 30 percent chance of rain, according to the National Weather Service.

Old Farm Splash Park

What: Grand opening

When: Noon today

Where: 13680 S. 3250 West, Riverton

How much: Free

E-MAIL: jhancock@desnews.com