A beloved greenspace located on Ann Arbor’s southeast side, Bicentennial Park, is soon getting a new update! Previously known as Southeast Area Park, it spreads over 26.5-acres in Ann Arbor. It was renamed during Ann Arbor’s Bicentennial celebration in 2024. The space currently features two playgrounds, restrooms, a pavilion and sports fields.
According to Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation’s recent press release, construction on the city’s very first universal-access splash pad began in late July and is expected to last through December 2025. The construction project will also feature an updated playground structure and solar-powered restrooms. During construction, the ball fields, basketball court and playground on Ellsworth Road will remain open. The second playground, pavilion and restrooms will be closed during the construction project.
The universal-access splash pad will be a welcome addition to a popular neighborhood attraction. It will feature ground spray elements, water play areas and a bucket water drop.
Park Planner and Landscape Architect Adam Fercho shared insight on the project. 
When is the estimated completion date/opening date for the universal splash pad?
“We anticipate the project will be completed by the end of this year, with a public opening planned for the 2026 pool season. Typically, our outdoor pools open around Memorial Day, and we expect the splash pad to follow a similar schedule.
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The splash pad is part of the broader Bicentennial Park Improvements Project, which is being completed in two phases:
- Phase 1 includes installation of the splash pad, replacement of existing playground equipment and expansion and improvements to the current restroom facility.
- Phase 2 involves repaving the southern parking lot, park road and sidewalks throughout the park.
Our goal is to complete both phases by the end of the year.”
What are the special features of the splash pad? What age range is the splash pad designed for?
“The splash pad has been thoughtfully designed to provide a fun, safe and inclusive experience for users of all ages and abilities. It features three distinct interactive zones:
- Tot Zone – Designed for younger children, this area includes small bubblers and a water table, allowing gentle interaction without overwhelming sprays.
- Family Zone – Offers more dynamic water sprays and elements, ideal for group play and exploration.
- Splash Zone – The most exciting area, featuring multi-directional sprays and a large tipping bucket centerpiece that creates a dramatic splash when full.
Two guiding principles shaped the design: accessibility and sustainability.
- From an accessibility standpoint, both the splash pad and the new playground will be universally accessible, with equipment selected to meet a range of physical and sensory needs.
- In terms of sustainability, the splash pad will use a recirculation system, meaning water is treated and reused—similar to a pool—rather than sent into the storm sewer. A splash pad of this size would typically use 10–15 million gallons of water per season, but the recirculation system reduces usage to just 20,000 gallons. Additionally, solar panels will be installed to meet all of the park’s electrical demands.”
Can you give us any additional information about the project?
“An exciting aspect of this project is that it is being funded largely through generous donations and partnerships with local organizations. While improvements are underway, fundraising efforts are still ongoing to support the completion of the park. To learn more or get involved, please visit our project page.”
Current project sponsors include:
- State of Michigan
- University of Michigan
- Rotary Club of Ann Arbor
- AFC Ann Arbor
- International Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Foundation (IWSH)
- United Association
- Kohler Co.
- Shoner Plumbing and Mechanical
How can we contact the city for any questions or comments regarding this project?
“Please feel free to contact Adam Fercho, Park Planner and Landscape Architect, at AFercho@a2gov.org.”
Southeast Area Park, 2901 E Ellsworth Rd, Ann Arbor.
