The McKennan Park wading pool reopened this week after more than a year of construction.
The McKennan Park project started in spring 2025 and included the complete reconstruction of the park’s wading pool and bath house to improve accessibility, safety and family amenities. The redesigned wading pool includes a zero-depth entry with 2-foot maximum depth, a two-person slide and multiple spray features. The renovated bath house has additional restrooms, indoor gathering space and a concessions area.
Originally built in 1971, the wading pool has served families as a free amenity for more than 50 years. The City had it slated for replacement, and a donation by Pierce and Barbara McDowell through the Community Foundation allowed for additional upgrades and finishes to the $4.4 million project.
“Gifts like this one from the McDowell family help strengthen projects that benefit our community for generations to come," said Mary Kolsrud, chief philanthropy officer of the Community Foundation. "We are so grateful for our donors, who continue to enhance our community.”
The McDowells' donation supported an expanded concessions area, architectural elements to the bath and warming house and operations building, shade structures, additional spray features in the pool and a variety of park amenities such as planters, benches and a sculpture recognizing Helen McKennan, who donated the parkland in 1906.
“This project preserves one of Sioux Falls’ most cherished summer traditions while creating a safer, more accessible and engaging experience for families to enjoy,” said Brett Kollars, assistant director of the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. “Every element of the renovation was designed to better serve children and families while honoring the history and character of McKennan Park.”
“Our family has lived in this neighborhood for more than 35 years, and we know how important this park is to the community,” Pierce McDowell III said. “We are grateful to play a small part in preserving the park for future generations."
The plans to replace the wading pool and warming house at McKennan Park will expand thanks to a generous donation. A donation from Pierce and Barbara McDowell will fund enhancements to the McKennan Park Wading Pool Replacement Project. The gifting agreement, subject to City Council approval, allows up to $2.5 million for this portion of the project.
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