Kentucky Splash expansion slowly moving ahead

The cost of the Kentucky Splash Waterpark expansion in Williamsburg has almost doubled since estimates were received. Due to the rising costs, the expansion may be limited to just waterpark related renovations.

As part of the initial expansion plans, the city expected to add a new waterpark slide attraction, a splash pad, tennis courts, two softball/baseball fields, additional campsites, cottages, a volleyball court, a new entrance and more.

Since the original $6.3 million estimate in May 2019, the total cost of the expansion today would come in at more than $11.5 million.

The city is waiting to determine if it will receive tax credits which may help offset some of the additional costs, but whether the city will get tax credits will not be known for at least a couple more weeks.

Plans were for renovations to begin in March, but for now, many of the plans have been placed on hold until the tax credit revenue can be determined.

The city has already bid the plans for the waterpark and hopes to continue moving forward with excavation in spring, but the timeline for when dirt will begin moving exactly is unknown.

If the city receives tax credits, it will start with the waterpark renovations including a new slide attraction, fixing the kid pool area, and installing a splash pad. If additional funds remain, they will most likely be used to start on the campground area.

If no tax credits are received, the city will do what it is able with the waterpark expansion and will continue to work on additional features as monies become available.

Regardless of whether the full expansion can take place at this time, Williamsburg Mayor Roddy Harrison said that the city will do something to improve the waterpark since it already has some funds allotted for the expansion.