It’s been five years since the first screams of joy and laughter could be heard at the city’s splash pad at Sunset Park.

This year, the free water park opened May 1 and will be delighting youngsters and parents through Sept. 30. The water is on a timer that can be activated 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Park goers are encourage to follow splash pad rules such as no running, wear shoes and no dogs permitted.

“It is very popular,” Parks and Recreation Manager Rachel Murdoch said. “Ramada rentals increase because the splash park is open. Parents enjoy how easy it is. You just have to use it safely. It is also extremely convenient with its proximity to the playgrounds. Kids enjoy going back and forth between playground and splash park.”

This year, the city did an overhaul of the equipment. All above-ground features have been repainted so hard water stains are gone. The wet area has also been repainted a bright blue, with slip resistant paint.

“Our goal is to get people out to the parks to enjoy themselves, and this is just one more reason to do that,” Murdoch said.

Funding for the park was a joint effort between the city and several individuals and groups — which included an anonymous donation of $30,000 as well as $62,000 brought in through the Lexi Kazian Foundation. When the park opened, Kris Kazian, president of the foundation and former Sedona Fire District chief, praised the results.

“The park by far exceeds my expectations,” he said. “This project is very special to us, as we’ve made Sedona our home. Having our angel be part of this community just makes this project that much more special.”

Lexi Kazian had cerebral palsy and died when she was just 2. Kazian said one of the main reasons the foundation was behind a water park was that it was something children of all abilities could enjoy.

“This park has no incumbrances — it can be used by children in wheelchairs as well as those who need the assistance of crutches or a walker,” he said. “They can come here, have fun and enjoy themselves just like any other child,”

The park includes a flow-through design using fresh water. It offers features and themes for children ages 8 months old through adulthood to enjoy.

In 2014, Murdoch said the flow-through design is $143,000 less than a recirculation system, as well as additional ongoing monthly maintenance costs. Since the water won’t be treated with chemicals, it cannot be reused for irrigation or watering within the park.

Sunset Park is also host to shaded playgrounds and two picnic ramadas that can be rented, as well as tennis courts, basketball court and pickleball. Children may enjoy the StoryWalk provided by the Sedona Public Library that meanders through the park along the sidewalk.

For park reservations, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 282-7098.

Ron Eland can be reached at 282-7795, ext. 122 or by email at reland@larsonnewspapers.com