Trap Pond looks to make a splash

On Monday, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Control (DNREC) held a ground-breaking ceremony for the new Cypress Splash Zone splash park at Trap Pond State Park. The water park is expected to be open by mid-summer in 2026.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Cypress Splash Zone water park at Trap Pond took place on Monday near the site.

“This is the beginning of a new era at Trap Pond,” said Sen. Tim Dukes. “We’re excited in western Sussex to have something additional for the kids.”

Secretary of DNREC Greg Patterson, like many in attendance at Monday’s press conference, used to go camping at Trap Pond as a kid.

“This park is a really special one for me and a lot of people,” Patterson said.

The new 5,000 square foot splash pad will have four separate splash zones, each designed for specific age groups and one for inclusive play for all children and their families. The site, located near the Bald Cypress Nature Center, will also include an entry station, restrooms, and a first aid station.

Rep. Tim Dukes, who held a May 2021 feasability study for the Trap Pond water park in his hand when he spoke, said the idea was championed by the late Ron Breeding and the late Sen. Robert Venables idea. The project was funded, then pulled due to money issues. It was brought back up and signed during Governor John Carney’s term in office.

“We’re just doing it for the kids,” said Dukes.

The project was funded through an Economic Development Administration grant, awarded in 2022; state bond bill appropriations; and a $1.5 million contribution from Sussex County in 2024 for construction. New County Councilman Matt Lloyd spoke about the benefits of the new park, as did State Parks and Recreation Director Matt Ritter.

“It’s a great opportunity and a great amenity that we’re bringing into the park. This is really about partnerships,” said Ritter.

A ribbon cutting for the new water park will take place next summer.