The plan is to open the facility during summer break. However, the water playground, which is about 50 years old, is generally showing its age and is in dire need of renovation. Among other issues, cracks are forming in the pools, causing water to leak out as one half of the pool sinks. The water technology is also in a dilapidated state; for example, pumps and filters are heavily corroded and need to be replaced.

Due to the city of Mainz’s current tight budget situation, it is unfortunately still unclear whether and when a fundamental renovation—which is technically feasible but would cost an estimated 600,000 euros—can be carried out. The city is currently exploring options for funding a complete new construction of the facility, which, for reasons of cost-effectiveness, appears to make more sense at least as things stand today.

Janina Steinkrüger, Head of the Environmental Department: “The administration is aware of the importance of the water playground on Hartenberg, and we are currently exploring options for financing a new facility. However, it is clear that neither a major renovation nor a new construction can be carried out in the short term. We therefore hope that the facility will remain operational for a while longer and can continue to be used by Mainz’s young residents.”