We’ve previously reported about the Rockford Park District’s plan to renovate attractions at Magic Waters and add a new thrill ride. The Park District’s board of commissioners approved the second phase of that plan today.
Commissioners approved two contracts to improve several attractions at Magic Waters.
“We are excited to move forward on these remaining projects that are part of our park’s overall master plan. The slide surfaces are in need of repair, and refurbishment of these attractions is needed in order to maintain our high guest satisfaction and safety standards,” said Magic Waters Director Jessica Steinberg. “These improvements will help us maintain our market share in the competitive water park arena.”
The board approved a $246,410 contract with Splashtacular, Inc. to repair and renovate two tube slides built in 1988, the year the Park District obtained the water park from private ownership. Repairs will be made to the fiberglass slides and renovations will be made to the supporting structures. The work is scheduled to be complete in time for the May 28 opening.
The board also approved a $933,000 contract to Schaefges Brothers, Inc. for the replacement of the boardwalk that leads up to three body slides and the addition of a new thrill ride. That work is scheduled to begin after the park closes Sept. 6 and would be ready for the 2012 season.
A rendering of the proposed new speed slide provided by the Rockford Park District.
The new speed slide is planned to be a 75-foot-tall body slide. It would be the tallest attraction at the park. To see more of the design, click HERE.
“The addition of a low-cost thrill slide on the existing body slide structure is projected to increase the park’s entertainment value, attendance, and revenue as well as shorten the consistently long lines at our other thrill ride, the Splashblaster,” Steinberg said.
The additions are paid for by $3.67 million in bonds commissioners decided to issue in January to improve the water park and refinance existing debt. The bonds are paid for with revenues from the water park. No property tax dollars are used for the repairs or new ride.
