Kenwick Park splash pad opens Thursday in honour of Pat Gladwish

A splash pad at Bright’s Grove’s Kenwick on the Lake Park, made possible by a donation from the Pat and Val Gladwish Foundation, holds its official opening this week.

A new splash pad at Kenwick on the Lake Park in Bright's Grove opens officially this Thursday, the result of a community-minded donation and a vision that began at a park in Orillia.

The opening ceremony takes place June 18 at 11 a.m. at the park, located at 2759 Lakeshore Road. Val Gladwish, Mayor Mike Bradley, and members of the project team are expected to attend.

The splash pad was built in honour of Val Gladwish's late husband, Patrick Gladwish, after she approached the City with the idea. Her inspiration came from a similar splash pad she visited with her grandchildren in Orillia. Sarnia City Council approved the donation from the Pat and Val Gladwish Foundation earlier in 2025, and construction began that October.

Val Gladwish has described the project as "both a legacy to Pat's values and as an investment in the continued growth of the community." Southwest Fence and Decks Limited was selected as the contractor through a competitive tender process. The design incorporates natural elements intended to keep families active and engaged.

Mayor Mike Bradley said he is "happy to see this project moving forward and grateful to the Pat and Val Gladwish Foundation for making this meaningful community space possible — a place that will bring families together for years to come."

The splash pad was targeted for completion ahead of the 2026 aquatics season, with minimal disruption to the park during construction.