Big Splashes, Big Smiles: Williston, North Dakota Celebrates Water World’s Grand Opening

It was a big day in Williston, and by big, I mean cannonball-into-the-pool big! After years of dreaming, planning, and fundraising, Water World finally opened its gates to a wave of excitement.

This isn’t just any splash pad or backyard sprinkler, we’re talking about a community water park funded by a staggering $16 million from private donors. That says a lot about this project and the community’s desire to make a splash, quite literally.

Williston Mayor Howard Klug kicked things off with a few heartfelt words, setting the tone for what is sure to be one of the community’s favorite gathering places.

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Brookelle Otto from the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce added her own cheers to the day’s celebrations.

Emily Ramage Geltel from the Williston Community Builders, the group that got this project afloat, thanked the City of Williston for donating the land, a perfect spot for water-filled fun. She also recognized the late John Kasmer, whose immense contributions helped turn the dream into reality.

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Joe Barsh from Williston Parks and Recreation put it perfectly when he said what the Community Builders does for Williston is “rare and exceptional.” Barsh, too, tipped his hat to Kasmer for all he did for kids and the community.

The honor of the official ribbon-cutting fell to Lois Sheele, another champion of the community who’s no stranger to bringing people together.

But perhaps the best line of the day came from Emily Ramage Geltel herself: “This is not a grand opening, it’s a grand beginning.”

So here’s to water slides, splashes, and sunny days ahead. Williston, you’ve made a splash, and we can’t wait to see what other “grand beginnings” are just around the corner!