Alyce Gereaux Park a hit, officials stress safety
BRAWLEY — Since its re-opening Alyce Gereaux Park has attracted capacity crowds with all the must-haves for summer fun: lawn chairs, umbrellas, ice chests, sunscreen and music noted city staff Friday.
Yet along with the pleasure of a great new public facility community members are reminded park rules are established to protect everyone’s security and recreational enjoyment.
“The community response to the splash pad and family-oriented activities, make clear we are addressing a great community need for recreation,” said Mayor Sam Couchman.
But as residents take advantage of the new amenities they are asked to comply with park rules:
Swim diapers are required for all children under age 4.
Users must conduct themselves in a courteous, safe and family-oriented manner.
Alcohol consumption and tobacco use are prohibited.
The state-of-the-art splash pad is an unparalleled type of facility in the city. Therefore, it is expected the first few weeks of operation could require interruptions to continuous service, cautioned City Manager Rosanna Bayon Moore.
“We are addressing outstanding items with the project’s design and construction team and fine tuning new procedures for the splash pad,” said Moore. “It will take time to optimize the system. The city appreciates the public’s patience.”
Moore further clarified, since the reopening the city has received troubleshooting advice by phone. A construction project team was scheduled to inspect the splash pad Friday. The team comprises the design firm, general contractor and subcontractors who met with city staff in the afternoon. Discussion from the meeting will develop into a plan of action and a schedule of work will be set, noted Moore.
In the meantime, the hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, including Sundays, through the last Saturday in September. Information concerning scheduled shutdowns will be posted on the city website at www.brawley-ca.gov under the “Latest News” tab. Residents may also contact the Parks and Recreation department at 760344-5675.
“Family picnics can be seen throughout the park,” said Pat Dorsey, Parks and Recreation director. “The sound of laughter is everywhere. This is how it used to be when I was a kid. Kids are outside having fun.”