POCAHONTAS, IA (NorthwestIowaNow) — A long-anticipated splash pad project in Pocahontas is officially moving forward.

 

During their regular council meeting on Monday, April 6, city officials approved the final location and contracts for the project. The splash pad will be built just west of the Pocahontas swimming pool, in an open green space near the newer pickleball courts.

The project is being led by Hudson’s Crew, a local nonprofit formed in memory of three-year-old Hudson Robert Wilfore, who passed away in an accident in 2023.

Hudson’s mother and organization president, Jessica Wilfore, says Monday’s decision cleared the way to move ahead.

 

 

City leaders say they are excited to see the project move forward and praised Hudson’s Crew for its generosity. Remaining details include adjustments to nearby parking around Court Square and ensuring the splash pad is fully handicap accessible. Some tree removal is also possible, which had already been planned as part of general park improvements.

Wilfore says the project is both exciting and emotional.

 

 

She notes that all splash pad equipment has already been purchased and is being stored locally. Sande Construction will serve as the general contractor, working alongside local contractors who have donated labor and resources.

Weather permitting, Wilfore says a groundbreaking is expected by the end of April.

 

 

Once completed, the splash pad will be free, open to the public, and turned over to the City of Pocahontas as a permanent community amenity.

City officials hope the splash pad will be operational near the time the municipal pool opens for the summer season.