July 29, 2026 — Shovels are in the ground as construction gets underway on a new splashpad at Germain Park, thanks to generous support from the Rotary Club of Sarnia-Bluewaterland, the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.
The new splashpad, which will include 14 different water features, marks a continuation of the city’s $7-million vision to revitalize the 60-acre central Sarnia park, ensuring it continues to serve residents and diverse recreational needs for decades to come.
The $535,000 splashpad is funded under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP). Through ICIP, the Government of Canada contributed $214,000; the Government of Ontario provided $178,315; and $42,685 is funded from the City of Sarnia. The project also received $100,000 in support from the Rotary Club of Sarnia-Bluewaterland.
“Investing in recreational infrastructure like the Germain Park Splash Pad is vital for the well-being and growth of our communities. Spaces like this provide residents with a fun place to gather, be active, and enjoy the outdoors,” said Marilyn Gladu, Member of Parliament for Sarnia — Lambton — Bkejwanong.
“Our government is proud to support local infrastructure projects that will lay the foundation for strong, resilient communities and make a real difference in people’s lives. Once completed, the splashpad in Germain Park will be enjoyed by residents and families in Sarnia for years to come. This project is part of Ontario’s $236 billion capital plan over the next decade to build and expand infrastructure that will help keep workers on the job and support economic growth,” said Todd McCarthy, Ontario’s Acting Minister of Infrastructure.
“Germain Park is a hub for outdoor recreation and physical activity for thousands of Sarnia residents each year. I’m extremely pleased that the Government of Ontario is investing in this project to modernize the park and expand opportunities for all residents to enjoy,” said Bob Bailey, MPP Sarnia-Lambton
“The Rotary Club of Sarnia Bluewaterland’s donation to this splash pad reflects both the spirit of Sarnia and the club’s ongoing commitment to giving back to the community. This is a great thing for Sarnia,” said Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley.
“The Rotary Club of Sarnia-Bluewaterland is proud to support this City of Sarnia project that is very much needed by city youth. When we heard about the overwhelming support expressed for a splashpad we were excited to get involved. Over the years, our club has previously helped fund city playgrounds including two at Centennial Park, one at Canatara Park, one at Mike Weir Park, and one at Germain Park. The splash pad at Germain is our first splash pad. In today’s hotter climate, having a safe place to cool off for children of all ages is important to the health of our community. We are looking forward to the opening,” said Scott McKelvie, Rotary Club of Sarnia-Bluewaterland Youth and Vocational Committee Chair.
“Community and partner support like this is so meaningful in helping to ensure that families and residents can continue to enjoy Germain Park as a space to gather, connect, and participate in a wide array of recreational and athletic activities as they grow,” said City of Sarnia Communications Manager Steve Henschel.
Construction of the splashpad is part of Phase 1 of the Germain Park Master Plan. The splashpad project follows up on initial Phase 1 work initiated in 2025 including a relocated and revitalized dog park, and new playground.
To learn more about the Germain Park Master Plan, visit www.sarnia.ca/PlansAndStudies.
