THUNDER BAY — Several things already seem to be working in Gerry Champagne's favour as he prepares to open his inflatable water park for its second season at Boulevard Lake.
The Splish Splash Water Park begins operation Friday afternoon, and will stay open daily through Labour Day from noon to 8:15 p.m.
Last year, Champagne faced a few hurdles, notably the unexpected plunge in the lake level after the gates on the dam were opened, forcing the temporary shutdown of the attraction.
The Thunder Bay native, who's now based in Calgary, said the business was also hurt by unusually cool weather in July, and by the departure of two lifeguards from Manitoba in late August, which forced him to close ahead of schedule.
This season holds more promise, he said, because it's expected to be a warm summer, and because the popularity of the new playground at Boulevard Lake — which opened last September — will almost certainly entice more families to try out the water park.
Finding the eight lifeguards he needs to supervise the attraction was made easier by the shutdown this summer of the Canada Games Complex.
"This year I don't think I'll have a problem because everybody's from Thunder Bay and in high school, and they don't go back until after Labour Day," he said.
Champagne, who also operates two similar facilities in Manitoba, has made some minor modifications based on some things that were learned last year, including the placement of the anchors.
A new slide has also been added to the water park.
He said he's already sensing that people are enthused about the prospect of bringing their children to the attraction in the coming days.
"The vibe is really good ... When I talk to people I like to hear the excitement in their voices. With the new Canadian Tire park here, and the mini-putt next door, Boulevard is going to go back to like it used to be when we were kids. I remember coming here and it was packed. That's the way it's gonna be this summer."
Admission prices begin at $14 per hour for children under 10, but Champagne said a full-day pass costs only $23.
