OTHELLO — The construction of a new splash pad in Othello’s Kiwanis Park is still on track to start this spring. Construction originally was scheduled for 2025, but Mayor Ken Johnson said the need for state agency approval slowed down the project.  

“I’m excited for that to finally happen,” Johnson said. 

A start date and construction timeline are still being determined.  

“I know it will be as soon as the weather is permissible,” Johnson said.  

The total cost of the splash pad and a walking trail through the park is about $1.26 million, money the city received through a grant. When it’s completed, and with the continued closure of the Othello Community Pool, the splash pad will be the main alternative for people who want to cool off on a hot day. 

The splash pad will be located on the Shady Lane side of the park, near its only parking lot. The layout includes water jets on the playground toys and the splash pad deck, as well as the “super-soaker,” a feature that holds water, which it dumps periodically. The toys will be accessible to children – and adults – with limited mobility. 

The toys are designed with a railroad theme, both to recognize Othello’s origins as a railroad town and to tie in with the Iron Horse playground that opened in Lions Park in 2024. 

The pool was closed in spring 2024 after city maintenance workers discovered significant damage to it as well as a major leak. A community committee presented the Othello Council with options to repair the existing pool, replace it or replace and expand it. 

Council members opted to submit a $3.55 million bond proposal to city residents in November 2025. The bond would’ve fixed the existing pool, replacing the broken components and others that could be at risk of breaking, along with upgrading the pool’s mechanical and electrical systems. The proposal received about 55% of the vote but needed 60% to pass. 

Voters also selected a new mayor, and three new council members were either elected or appointed. With those changes, Johnson said the new city officials want to take some time before deciding what to do next. 

“We need to look at all alternatives,” he said. 

That includes a search for other sources of money to help pay at least part of the cost of fixing the pool, he said. It could also mean a revived community committee to study the options. The city also could have the option of issuing limited general obligation bonds, which do not need a public vote, to pay for the project. That was discussed, but council members rejected it at the time, opting for the construction bond instead.  

Johnson said he has a preference, but that ultimately the pool’s fate will be up to the city council. 

“I think we need to repair what we have there, but it’s not my decision,” he said.