Huntington families have very limited access to free or affordable public swimming and water-play options. Many families cannot afford private pool memberships, repeated admission fees, or regular travel to water attractions outside the city.

This lack of accessible water recreation creates an even greater barrier for children with disabilities. Children with autism, developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, sensory differences, or limited swimming ability may struggle to safely use traditional swimming pools. Crowds, deep water, noise, accessibility limitations, and a lack of sensory-friendly features can prevent many children from participating.

Ritter Park is already one of Huntington’s most popular community spaces. An inclusive splash pad would provide children of different ages and abilities with a safe place to cool down, exercise, socialize, and enjoy outdoor water play. Features such as ground-level fountains, wheelchair-accessible equipment, gentle sensory-friendly areas, shade, seating, safe surfaces, and nearby accessible restrooms would allow more families to participate.

Huntington needs a free, inclusive, and accessible summer recreation option for its children. We are asking the Greater Huntington Park & Recreation District and the City of Huntington to study the feasibility of adding an inclusive community splash pad at Ritter Park and to explore grants, sponsorships, donations, and community partnerships to help fund it.