In a recent Rotary meeting, Carrollton Parks and Recreation Director John Layng gave attendees an in-depth look at plans to revitalize the Midtown Water Park located at 125 Leroy Childs Street. Annually serving over 150,000 patrons, both local and from the surrounding region, the aging public pool is due for significant upgrades, according to Layng. The slide has been upgraded three times in 29 years. “We’re the only public pool option between LaGrange and Floyd County on Highway 27,” Layng said. The park has people from as far away as Haralson, Heard, Paulding, and Douglas County ”seeking relief from the heat.” With no other public pools, the facility attracts “a lot of camps, youth groups, baseball and softball teams, and families from other places.” The price to use the pool can be up to $3, but varies by age. Park and Rec also offers season passes for families.
The extensive renovation project will be funded through a $2.2-million state grant secured by Hayley Beaver, who has a background in grant writing for the city of Carrollton. Construction plans include demolishing the outdated entrance building and constructing a new welcome center with walk-up concessions and upgraded bathrooms. Parking infrastructure will also receive maintenance. Aquatic amenities like a resurfaced main pool with a new liner and “a bigger, taller waterslide that’s long overdue” aim to enhance the visitor experience. A zero-depth entry area and additional seating are also in the works. When it is completed at the target date of May 2025, Layng hopes the water park will create a special place for families to gather and make memories for generations. The department will also re-evaluate resident fees to distinguish local rates from non-resident costs.
Layng launched plans to beautify the city-run cemetery through a new ambassador program. With the oldest marked grave belonging to John O’Long who was born in 1802 and passed away in 1880, the historic graveyard contains “a lot of history that deserves dignity,” Layng said. Volunteers will help repair aging headstones to honor that history.
When someone in attendance inquired about plot availability, Layng confirmed there are some available for purchase. The Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for all facets of the cemetery. They sell the plots, maintain the appropriate records, and do the maintenance of the grounds.
The extensive Midtown Water Park project and cemetery revitalization efforts reflect the city’s commitment to upgrading recreational facilities and caring for its historic sites.
