With summer coming to an end, the city of Leeds has begun construction and installation of two major children’s play facilities that includes demolition and new construction of the large playground at Leeds Memorial Park on Montevallo Road and the Leeds Splash Pad location on Park Avenue.

“I’m happy to announce major new investments in our city’s children’s facilities,” Leeds Mayor David Miller said in a press release. “Our first big project is a complete makeover and upgrade to the children’s playground at Memorial Park. We have earmarked approximately three-quarters of a million dollars to replace all the old playground equipment, upgrade access to Americans with Disabilities Act standards and replace the rock and shavings ground cover with new safer materials.”

Miller said the project is expected to be finished in a few weeks and will give Leeds “one of the finest children’s play facilities in the state.”

The city’s splash pad closed the 2024 season a few days early due to some malfunctions in the equipment. Decisions were made to completely renovate the splash pad with all new water features and replace the defective equipment during the fall and winter months.

“Many folks wondered about the early closing of our splash pad this year,” Miller said. “We have major leaks under the concrete and our pumping equipment is in bad shape. I’m happy to announce that a complete remake of our splash pad will commence shortly and will give us what is essentially a completely new facility. Included in this project will be all new, more durable features as well as new pumping equipment and piping. An up-to-date, safer surface will also be included. This project will be completed in time for spring opening on schedule and will give Leeds’ children the finest splash pad in the area. We will continue to provide this facility free of charge to Leeds residents and other designated personnel.”

The preschool playground at the park was completely renovated in August 2023 with all new playground equipment, designed for children aged 2 to 5, that focuses on the child’s developmental needs and play styles. It includes sensory activities (visual, tactile and auditory), age-appropriate climbing activities, and interactive elements to improve fine motor skills. The system features slides, climbers, a themed climber, a climbing tunnel, a table with seats for two and a large roof for shade to ensure a comfortable play environment. The walking track was also resurfaced and an adult outdoor fitness park was added in 2022.