Patrons will have a new way to get wet at Rogers McFeely Memorial Pool when the outdoor Latrobe swimming venue adds a splash pad.

Plans are to install the new feature by the 2026 swim season, replacing a little-used baby pool, said Craig Shevchik, executive director of Greater Latrobe Parks and Recreation.

“Most communities have splash pads now,” Shevchik said. “We’ve talked about it for a couple of years, and now it’s the right time.

“The baby pool wasn’t being used a whole lot. It’s an opportunity to revamp the swimming pool area and attract new users.”

Rec planners envision the splash pad providing recreational opportunities for multiple generations and serving as an added amenity for family outings to the pool, according to Shevchik.

“We have a little picnic shelter,” he said. “We want to really open that up, to expand that for birthday parties, family gatherings and rentals. Kids can swim a little and play in the splash pad for a little.

“It’s more interactive play for the kids. We’re excited about it.”

Shevchik said the splash pad will have “green” supporting infrastructure designed to reduce water usage by filtering and recirculating it.

The pool complex also will see improvements to landscaping and to accessibility for those with handicaps.

The regional rec organization is partnering with the local McFeely-Rogers Foundation to fund part of the project, which has an estimated cost of $580,000.

The project also will receive a $240,600 state grant through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Community Conservation Partnerships Program.

“The renovation of the Rogers McFeely Memorial Pool will provide a safe, accessible space for recreation and help meet the needs of our growing community,” said state Rep. Leslie Rossi, a Republican from Unity who recently announced approval of the grant.

The baby pool, which dates from 1959, will remain open for the 2025 swim season, Shevchik said.

He said the Rogers McFeely pool had a successful 2024 season, with 230 children enrolling in swimming lessons.

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