Ariel Corp. has proposed a $1.3 million commitment to Mount Vernon for the construction of a splash pad at Riverside Park, which also includes a decade's worth of maintenance costs.
"This project has great significance to the Wright Family and Ariel Corp. as it is done to honor the memory of Hunter Wright. As such the design of the splash pad would be a previously reviewed pirate theme with the name of Captain Hunter's Landing," said Brian Huprich, Ariel Chief Financial Officer, in a letter addressed to Mayor Matt Starr and City Engineer Brian Ball, according to the Mount Vernon City Council agenda for April 22.
In his letter, Huprich offered the city $1.315 million to fund not only the splash pad but also a restroom facility and pumphouse that could double as a covered patio, according to the same council agenda. The funding was also intended to cover additional seating, landscaping, and contingency costs.
According to Huprich's letter attached to the council agenda, Ariel's offer was made contingent on the city completing the splash pad project by May 11, 2025. If not completed by then, outstanding funding amounts would be withheld and the maintenance commitment would be withdrawn.
