Big splashes are coming to the Jewish Community Center this summer—safer, cooler and more fun than ever.

Thanks to a new Inclusive Design Award from Life Floor, the J’s Staenberg Family Complex’s splash pad is getting a major upgrade. Construction is already underway on the new cushioned flooring, with a grand re-opening expected by mid-May.

The splash pad, part of the Siwak Family Outdoor Recreational Pool, serves more than 4,000 visitors each summer. Now, with the addition of Life Floor’s state-of-the-art padding, it will offer improved traction, less heat underfoot and a soft surface for play—especially important for young children and individuals with mobility challenges.

“This new splash pad will give our little ones a safe and playful way to explore, learn and grow,” said Michelle Almengor, the J’s director of early childhood and family engagement.

The J’s splash pads—located both at the Staenberg campus and the Marilyn Fox Building in Chesterfield—have long been a hub for families, J day campers and early childhood center children. The upgrades are expected to create an even more inclusive environment by supporting sensory exploration, physical development and intergenerational play.

“We are so excited for this state-of-the-art splash pad to better enhance our member experience and safety at the J,” said Heather Cheseman, aquatics director at the J.

Leaders at the J say the enhancements are about more than just water play. They reflect the J’s broader mission to foster connection and community while promoting inclusion for people of all ages and abilities.

“We’re grateful to Life Floor for making this possible,” said Almengor. “This is how we build memories—and community—one splash at a time.”