DeHoyos Park is welcoming more fun into their amenity lineup as a ribbon cutting ceremony took place Monday morning, hosted by Sullivan 180, signifying the opening of their new splash pad. 

The newest addition to the park was partially funded by a 2021 Golden Feather from Sullivan Renaissance and NYS Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther, who believes the funding for this project was important because of its ability to bring many communities together.

“I’m really so pleased to bring back money to our community,” said Gunther. “I’m looking at all these children, and the Splash Pad Park, and I’m having a great time. This was so, so needed.”

Village Mayor Rochelle Massey stated that the project to build the Pad started as soon as she came into her position.

The Splash Pad will provide an accessible, active and fun destination for community members, especially those in the Village of Monticello and Thompson.

It did not take long for the Splash Pad to see some fun as local kids were eager to jump in even before the ribbon was cut. Young local resident Lyric Mack described the Splash Pad amenity as “amazing!”

Just how enthusiastic was Mack to step onto the new water-playground? “A lot,” she said. 

“It’s very important that we be helpful to the kids,” said Massey. “It’s very important that we continue working with them. They are our future.”

Sullivan 180 Communications Director Shannon Cilento noted the good use of the Golden Feather award. 

“We at Sullivan 180 are thrilled to see this project come to fruition after being awarded the Sullivan Renaissance Golden Feather Award in 2021,” said Cilento. “Increasing amenities that provide space for healthy recreation at parks is a top priority and this project exemplifies that goal.”