NEW SPLASH PAD SEASON, PARK UPGRADES PLANNED IN MOUNT STERLING

MOUNT STERLING — The Mount Sterling Park District is preparing for the first full summer season of its new splash pad at Joel Oliver Memorial Pool, marking a major milestone after years of upgrades and construction.

The splash pad, which opened briefly last summer, was one of the final major projects outlined in the district’s previous five-year strategic plan. Now, district leaders are already looking ahead, gathering community input to shape the next phase of improvements.

Park District President Chris Kassing says more than 100 residents responded to a recent survey, with many calling for updated parks and additional playground equipment. Officials are currently reviewing those responses as they begin developing a new five-year plan to guide future projects.

Kassing says having a long-term plan is critical—not only to prioritize improvements, but also to secure funding through grants such as those offered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Along with the splash pad’s full rollout later this spring, the district is also finishing several other upgrades, including a new pickleball court and a walking path of just over a mile that will connect the park to Lake Mount Sterling.

The pickleball court is being added on an existing concrete pad left available after splash pad construction. Crews are now working to paint the surface and install the net, with hopes of opening it by May.

Officials say the upcoming five-year plan will continue to focus on projects that reflect what the community wants most, ensuring future improvements align with local priorities.