Splash pad donations gain momentum

By Thomas Clapper
Reporter
Carroll County Energy made a donation on Oct. 5 to the Village of Carrollton to go toward a planned water pad at the 5th Street Park.
Mayor Bill Stoneman and Village Administrator Mark Wells accepted the check on behalf of the village from Carroll County Energy Facility Manager Merritt Brown.
“Anytime we see the community investing in themselves, we want to be a part of that,” said Brown. “It is a safe, acceptable and inclusive project that we are proud to be a part of.”
“We certainly appreciate Carroll County Energy contributing and continuing to help our community,” said Village Administrator Mark Wells. “The water pad will be a great project for the Carrollton community and the surrounding communities as well.”
The water pad is one of several new and upcoming additions to the 5th Street Park in Carrollton. Recent improvements include the ¼ mile walking track that was installed, the all abilities play structure, paving of the parking lot, added ADA ramp, refurbished park benches and camera installation. The plan is to add more and more things to improve and add to the space inside the track.
“We are having the cameras not only for safety but also for vandalism,” said Wells. “Vandalism has been a big problem in our community lately and on village owned property.”
The 5th Street Park grounds should be a new and exciting spot for local children and families to play in the near future with upcoming items including a new swing set will be installed by November, weather permitting, 13 new lights installed by AEP, two old structures removed and add a portable restroom facility to be on site next year. A permanent restroom facility, picnic shelter and basketball court are in the future plans of 5th Street Park.
Other donations for the water pad project include the Carroll County Foundation for $2,000 and a grant from Government Capital Budget for $30,000.
“The village is still in the process of funding this project and has council’s approval the pursue of funding,” said Wells. “Council’s approval of the project will be requested early next year when funding is secured.”