July 9, 2002 – Since its Easter opening, the colorful and cool water park at Lindbergh Bay has become so popular with the small set that the Port Authority has extended its operations to seven days a week from six, and added one more hour per day.
The park was designed to provides a enticing opportunity for young children to get over any fear of water they may have. There's water everywhere but no possibility of getting in over one's head. "The water playground is a great alternative to the beach," VIPA executive director Gordon Finch said in a release, "because it offers a safe and controlled environment for children of all ages."
A bright yellow mushroom, or umbrella if you prefer, splashes water onto the youngsters, and a pole with orange, green and yellow tumble buckets keeps them wet when they dance under it or pounce on one of the yellow lemon drops which spray when touched.
The water piped onto the play site doesn't accumulate but drains right back out to be recycled. The floor is a bright blue and green rubberized surface designed to prevent young feet from slipping. Overall, it's a safe place to play in the water for youngsters who don't yet know how to swim.
Previously, the park had been closed on Mondays, but that's no longer the case. Hours are now 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. On Aug. 23, with the startup of the new school year, the park will begin closing at 5:30 p.m. on weekdays and will once again be closed on Mondays.
The park admission fee is $1 for children under 12 and $2 for those older for half an hour of splashing. There is a group rate of $20 for 40 tickets.
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