Douglas County to Celebrate Opening of Topaz Ranch Estates Splash Pad and Launch of Expanded DART South County Service
Douglas County Community Services invites residents and visitors to celebrate two major South County investments during a community event on Monday, June 29, 2026, featuring the grand opening of the new Topaz Ranch Estates Community Park Splash Pad and the ribbon cutting for the expansion of Douglas Area Rural Transit (DART) service.
The Splash Pad Opening Ceremony will serve as the centerpiece of the celebration, showcasing Douglas County's ongoing commitment to expanding recreational opportunities and improving quality of life for residents of all ages and abilities. The event will also recognize the launch of the new DART South County route, further enhancing access to essential services and community resources.
The Topaz Ranch Estates Community Park Splash Pad Project was prioritized by the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and approved through the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Capital Improvement Plan. Designed as a community-focused amenity, the splash pad adds a modern, safe, and ADA-compliant water play area that encourages outdoor recreation and family engagement.
The project included site preparation, underground plumbing and drainage infrastructure, installation of interactive water features and play elements, slip-resistant surfacing, and integration with the park's existing water supply. The splash pad was also designed with sustainability in mind through the use of a recirculating water system that promotes water conservation. Additional safety and accessibility features include anti-slip surfacing and perimeter seating for family supervision.
The project was funded through a combination of Room Tax revenues, the Residential Construction Tax (South County), and a $100,000 contribution from the East Fork Swimming Pool District. Douglas County is proud to highlight the partnership with the East Fork Swimming Pool District and the Carson Valley Swim Center, whose support helped make the project possible.
"We are incredibly excited to partner with Douglas County Community Services to bring this splash pad project to the Topaz Ranch Estates community," said Shannon Harris, Director of the Carson Valley Swim Center. "This splash pad represents much more than a new recreational amenity. It is an investment in families, community, and childhood memories. This partnership demonstrates what can be accomplished when local organizations work together to expand recreational opportunities and enhance the quality of life for residents."
The splash pad project supports Douglas County's Strategic Plan by increasing opportunities and access for residents of all ages and abilities to enjoy outdoor recreation while enhancing one of South County's most valued community parks.
As part of the day's celebration, Douglas County Community Services will also conduct a ribbon cutting ceremony for the expansion of Douglas Area Rural Transit (DART) service to Topaz and South County.
The new DART route addresses a longstanding transportation gap and is designed to improve connectivity for underserved residents by providing reliable access to healthcare providers, retail and shopping centers, parks and recreational amenities, community outreach locations, and Douglas County service offices.
The route will include key stops at the Topaz Ranch Estates Community Center, Topaz Lodge, Holbrook Junction, Ray May Way, Carson Valley Health, Walmart, and the Douglas County Community and Senior Center. These destinations were identified through extensive community engagement and public outreach conducted throughout March and April 2026, including community workshops, congregate dining sessions, advisory board presentations, and meetings with local stakeholders.
The DART South County Expansion advances Douglas County's Strategic Plan by expanding access to quality county services, enhancing resident mobility and independence, and improving access to essential community resources.
Together, the splash pad opening and DART expansion represent Douglas County Community Services' continued investment in infrastructure and programs that strengthen communities, support families, and improve the overall quality of life for South County residents.
Event Details
DART South County Expansion Ribbon Cutting
Date: Monday, June 29, 2026
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Topaz Ranch Estates Splash Pad Celebration
Date: Monday, June 29, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: 11:30 a.m.
Location: Topaz Ranch Estates Community Park
3939 Carter Drive
Wellington, NV 89444
Residents are invited to join the celebration and enjoy a free community barbecue and commemorative gift, available while supplies last.