Shortly after the opening of the Emporia splash pad for the 2025 season, concerns regarding chemical balances were brought to the attention of city leadership.
This past Thursday, the city was alerted to social media posts claiming the chlorine levels in the splash pad’s water may have been too high. The posts claimed the water had bleached one individual’s bathing suit and potentially caused blotches or skin irritation to others.
During the monthly KVOE Q&A With Trey segment Tuesday morning, Emporia City Manager Trey Cocking stated the city tests the chemical levels daily and re-tested the levels once these concerns were brought to light.
He says the tests showed the levels were normal, but that said, he also stated the city takes any concerns regarding public safety, especially at city parks and facilities, very seriously.
With that in mind, Cocking says if individuals have concerns regarding issues such as chlorine levels at the splash pad to not hesitate and call the city’s non-emergency number 620-343-4225 and report the situation immediately so personnel can get out to address the situation.
Residents can also call the City Parks Department at 620-341-4365 between the hours of 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday with any questions or concerns. If individuals believe there is a life threatening situation Cocking says to call 9-1-1. Since the reports on social media from last week, Cocking says there have been no other concerns or issues expressed.
The Splash Pad opened this past Monday and will remain open through October. Hours for the Splash Pad are Noon to 8 p.m. on Mondays and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
