Miami Whitewater Forest has permanently closed its wet playground.
Parky’s Pirate Cove, built in 1996, was one of the first wet playgrounds in the region. Todd Palmeter, CEO of Great Parks, says the decision was made primarily due to aging infrastructure.
“Over the year’s regulatory requirements, design standards and guest expectations have evolved,” says Palmeter. “Taking into consideration the estimated costs of these repairs and the age of the facility, it has been determined the most prudent action to take is to close the facility.”
Once demolition is complete, estimated mid-summer, Great Parks will look to the public to determine how to better use the greenspace. “We will be developing a Park and Facility Master Plan and, as part of that Master Plan, we will reach out to our residents through community engagement to learn their priorities,” says Palmeter. “This information, combined with other research, will help Great Parks identify the best way to create outdoor spaces that are not only enjoyable and memorable, but also connect people to nature.”
Miami Whitewater Forest will continue to offer family activities including pedal boats, trails, disc golf and educational programming. Great Parks’ other wet playgrounds, located at Winton Woods and Woodland Mound, will remain open.
Great Parks of Hamilton County’s mission is to protect natural resources and provide outdoor education and recreation. For additional information, visitwww.greatparks.org or call 513-521-7275.