Construction is officially underway on Sapulpa’s long-awaited splash pad project at Kelly Lane Park, city officials confirmed during Monday’s episode of the Timeloop podcast.
The splash pad, which has been discussed for several years, is now moving into the development phase after extensive planning and land preparation, according to Sapulpa Communications Coordinator Lucy Lawson.
The splash pad is being built in the Kelly Lane Park area and is intended to become a new family-friendly attraction for Sapulpa residents, particularly during the summer months. Construction equipment has already moved onto the site, and early work is now visible to the public.
While excitement around the project has been growing, Lawson noted that some of the concept artwork currently circulating online is outdated. A rendering shared recently on social media was based on an earlier proposal created roughly four years ago, when a private donor had planned to contribute funding toward the project. That partnership has since changed.
“That concept was put out about four years ago,” Lawson explained. “We did have a private entity that was going to donate some money and help pay for the splash pad, but has since pulled back and will not be contributing.”
Because of that shift in funding, the final design will differ somewhat from the original concept images residents may remember seeing. City officials say updated renderings and finalized design details are still being completed.
Though Lawson didn’t say it in the interview, other sources have revealed that “private entity” to be D-Luxe Properties, the former food-truck park directly across Rock Creek from Kelly Lane Park. D-Luxe closed in March of 2025 and the City has since been working to acquire the property by way of eminent domain.
Even so, the city remains optimistic about the timeline.
“We are very hopeful in seeing it open in September,” Lawson said.
The splash pad project is separate from another long-discussed improvement near Kelly Lane Park — a proposed pedestrian bridge connection between Kelly Lane and the former D-Luxe Properties area. Lawson said that the bridge project is currently on hold and is not tied to the splash pad construction.
“It is a topic of discussion, but not part of the splash pad development,” she said.
The timing of the splash pad development coincides with the start of summer activities across Sapulpa. During Monday’s discussion, city officials also highlighted the upcoming opening of the Sapulpa Aquatic Center, summer camps, library programs, and youth activities designed to provide families with more recreational opportunities during school breaks.
Watch the full episode on YouTube or below: