Event Marks Official Opening of Long-Awaited Splash Pad in Old Town
The excitement could not be contained as close to 200 people attended the splash pad ribbon-cutting at Jonny D. Wallis Neighborhood Park (170 S. Kellogg Avenue) in Old Town Goleta.
City of Goleta Mayor Paula Perotte had the honors of cutting the blue ribbon yesterday, May 21, 2026, marking the official opening of the much-anticipated recreational amenity.
As part of the ribbon cutting, Boaz, celebrating his 9th birthday at the park, had the honor of hitting the button to turn on the water for the first time. Right after, approximately 100 children joined in the splash pad fun to cool off on this warm afternoon. To add to the excitement, free Kona Ice snow cones were handed out to attendees.
City of Goleta Neighborhood Services Director JoAnne Plummer emceed the event and shared her enthusiasm and pride over seeing this long-awaited project delivered.
She said, “As the kids ran into the splash pad for the first time, their laughter and wide-eyed excitement said everything. Parents were beaming, children were glowing, and in that moment, you could feel the heart of this community. This is the kind of joy that this space will provide for years.”
Mayor Paula Perotte, who spoke at the event, shared the history of how the project came to be.
She said, “Today, we stand here together, finally able to say: We did it. The splash pad is here. It’s real. And it belongs to all of you. This space represents persistence, partnership, and the power of community vision. It represents years of planning, patience, and hope. And most of all, it represents the families and children who will laugh, play, and make memories here for generations.”
Second District Councilmember James Kyriaco also shared his thoughts on this historic day for Goleta. He said, “I am excited for Old Town families and our local children and youth who will have a new and fun way to keep cool this summer! This splash pad fulfills the promises made to Old Town over many years to have a true neighborhood park and I look forward to seeing our community out making new memories and sharing in special moments for many years to come!”
Hours of Operation:
The splash pad will be open seasonally Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend operating six days per week from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The facility will be closed on Wednesdays for routine maintenance and cleaning throughout the summer season.
Features:
The colorful splash pad features 34 water jets that produce gentle streams in a variety of engaging patterns and is equipped with two activator posts to allow users to turn the splash pad on during designated hours. The splash pad utilizes a recirculated and treated water system to support environmental sustainability. The splash pad is open to all ages but is more entertaining for young children.
What to Know Before You Go:
- Parking at the park is limited, so please consider riding your bike, walking or carpooling.
- There is no entry fee—the splash pad is free to use!
- Children are required to have adult supervision. There are no lifeguards on duty.
- Children under three years of age must wear a swim diaper.
- No pets, food, candy, gum, or glass permitted on the splash pad.
- Although the water is treated, sanitized, and recirculated—do not drink the water.
- Be ready to get wet and be sure to bring your swimsuit and towels.
- Users are requested to rinse off before use and showers are available.
Thanks to everyone who joined us for this splash-tastic moment!
For more information go to www.CityofGoleta.org/SplashPad.
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This brings back memories of the old Mushroom Pool at West Beach and the other, less well-known, large rectangular and only about 18″ deep pool that used to be at East Beach. What fun those pools were in the summer for us kids.
Back in the day we were coated in suntan lotion (some of us, at any rate). Now the children will all be slathered in sunscreen lotion. There will be surfactants in the fabric leached out of beachwear which has been washed in detergents not environmentally friendly. I wonder how effective the sanitation is? How often is the water filtered? Are the children “bathing” in each others’ sunscreen and laundry products? Will the chlorine and PH levels be managed well?
This may well be of small regard for some, but — will birds and other wild animals accessing this water be harmed? I suppose most people consider such harm to wildlife as negligible. We certainly had no thought regarding such toxic chemicals being in kiddie pools in times past.
All that said, it is my hope that parents of these children will consider using enviro sunscreen and laundry products. For the laundry: No fabric softeners, no dryer sheets and certified eco-friendly “green” detergents.