Phase I of the long-awaited Splashplex opened this month at Alexander City’s sportplex with fountains and bucket drops for kids and a shade pavilion for parents and grandparents. The recreation feature is located on the main drive through the 212-acre park, near the recently updated Imagination Station playground, and like other recreational facilities at the park, use of the splash pad will be free.

“If everybody will do the right thing and follow the rules, we will leave it open from 8 a.m. to 5 or 6 in the evening,” said Alexander City Parks and Rec Director Sonny Wilson.