Splash pad, pooch park coming soon Published May 1, 2015 By Angela Woolen Robins Public Affairs ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- When one pool closes, a splash pad opens. Horizons, the former Officers Club, will be closing its pool due to maintenance issues, but a new offering will open this summer. Called a splash pad, the area near the Heritage Pool will feature water bubbling up from the ground, water spouts and more, said Kent Jenkins, 78th Force Support Squadron Community Services Flight chief. "This will be a family friendly water park," he said. Scheduled to open July 21, the splash area has been in the works for 15 months and will cost $260,000. The pool has limited hours because of a need for a lifeguard. The splash pad will be able to open earlier in the season than the pool and stay open after the pool closes for the year. The splash pad will be completely fenced off from the pool and has its own filtration system. There will also be a seating area in two places for parents to watch their children. "This is part of the quality of life initiative," Jenkins said. Another park which is being added to improve life at Robins is the addition of a dog park. A nearly 3-acre site adjacent to base housing will be available for dog owners to give their pooches a little room to run. "It is the perfect outlet for pet owners to exercise their dogs in a safe, off-leash setting," said Jenkins. There will be two separate areas, one for dogs larger than 40 pounds and another for smaller dog breeds. The park is only available to Robins residents and is restricted to the guidelines of on-base housing. A 5-foot high chain link fence will surround the area. Not only does it benefit dogs by giving them a chance to socialize with other dogs, but it also gives dog owners a chance to talk amongst themselves. The dog park plans to open in mid-May, depending on weather.