Cape Splash almost ready to open

On Memorial Day weekend, some people look forward to picnics and barbecues. But others look forward to diving in at Cape Splash.

The local water park is in the final days of its traditional countdown, unfurling one "funbrella" each day until the opening. On Saturday, the final one will pop open as swimmers young and old enjoy the lazy river, slides and splash pads.

"It's just a very positive, fun place to go for basically everyone. and we have a big drive to provide something for everyone, no matter what your age," said Patrick Watson, aquatic supervisor for the Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department.

People float along the lazy river on inner tubes Saturday, May 29, 2010 during the opening day of Cape Splash Family Auquatic Center. (Laura Simon)

In addition to the park's everyday amenities, special events are planned for different age groups. Adults 18 and older can enjoy adult swim times on select Fridays, swimming from 9 a.m. to the time of the park's usual opening at 11 a.m. An adult beach bash also will be in July after the park's regular hours of operation.

For children, the popular Mermaid and Pirate Party will return at 9 a.m. June 21. Kids Races are June 14 and include a half-mile race for ages 3 to 5 and a one-mile race for ages 6 to 8. A youth triathlon will be held for children between ages 9 and 18; participants will complete a 100-yard swim, a 4-mile bike ride and a 1-mile run.

"It's really popular and a really safe course, which is nice," said Watson. "Previously, we held the youth triathlon at Central Pool, and they had to run and ride their bikes kind of around the school campus there, but with Cape Splash we're able to utilize the Cape LaCroix trail, where there's no vehicular traffic."

For the second year in a row, the park also will participate in the "world's largest swim lesson." Last year, more than 60 people participated at Cape Splash and helped break the world record, said Watson, and the park plans to do the same again this summer.

Since the park opened in 2010, more than 315,000 visitors have come through its gates. It's become a summer destination vacation for many families in Cape Girardeau and the surrounding area.

"Keeping the place full has never been an issue for us," Watson said.

To keep up with growing crowds, Cape Splash has more than 170 employees who fulfill lifeguard, management, concessions, admission and maintenance duties.

The goal of the facility, initially paid for by bonds and a restaurant tax, is to improve the quality of life in Cape Girardeau and make the city a more attractive destination for tourists. If numbers for attendance and revenue generation are any indication, Cape Splash seems to be meeting those goals. Last year's revenue was nearly $500,000.

While part of that revenue went toward facility expenses, the rest provides can be used for emergencies or to cover other expenses.

"[Cape Splash] is one of the facilities that our department operates ... that does run a positive revenue stream and that definitely helps, especially when we look at trying to expand and make improvements and stuff like that," said Watson.

Weather permitting, the water park could see expansion by next summer. The city's parks and recreation department is working to finalize a contract for a speed slide featuring mat racing and drop slide components, said director Julia Thompson. It will be in the elevated area adjacent to Kingshighway and will be an attraction for older children.

srinehart@semissourian.com

388-3641

Pertinent address:

1565 N. Kingshighway St., Cape Girardeau, Mo.