Dewitt Sullivan Park Splash Pad
The Splash Pad at Dewitt Sullivan Park is the first large-scale, publicly accessible splash area in the city of Hattiesburg. It is located in the Palmer’s Community on Old Airport Road.
It features 3D water elements and decorative features that pay tribute to the Palmer’s Community through the historic Hi-Hat Club and the railroad industry.
Hours of Operation:
- Sunday – Saturday
- 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
The construction on this project began in January 2021 and was completed in June 2021.
Total Cost: $225,000
Construction: Great Southern Recreation
How It Started
On Thursday, January 14, 2020, city and county officials were joined by community leaders to break ground on a splash pad at Dewitt Sullivan Park.
The plans for the splash pad include 3D elements and decorative features like music notes and railroad tracks, which pay tribute to the Palmer’s community.
Benefits of this project include:
- Place for families and friends to stay cool during peak of summer months.
- Opportunities for children to develop sensory and motor skills.
- Promotes community through opportunities to socialize.
- Provides for less liability than a pool.
- Promotes tourism.
Thanks to an inter-agency agreement with the Forrest County Board of Supervisors, it is also the second amenity that the City of Hattiesburg has added to the park, a county-managed public space. The first of which is a pavilion that was later named in honor of longtime Palmer’s community member, Frankie R. Benton, who passed away in late 2020.
Photos from Groundbreaking
Video from Groundbreaking
Photos from Ribbon Cutting
Video from Grand Opening