07/28/2025
Dive into the fun at the grand opening of the Natalie’s Corner Splash Pad at the “Making a Splash for Natalie” celebration on Saturday, August 16, from 10 to 11 a.m., located at Central Park in Davis. All are welcome to attend this special event hosted by the City of Davis and the Natalie Corona Committee.
The grand opening will be emceed by Bob Dunning and will feature remarks by City of Davis Vice Mayor Donna Neville and Chair of the Natalie Corona Committee Lois Wolk, live music and a countdown to officially open the splash pad.
Light refreshments will be available. Participants are recommended to wear a hat or sunscreen and get ready to make waves as the incredible spirit, joy and dedication Natalie brought to the Davis community is remembered.
The splash pad will be free and open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily during the summer and includes:
*New, interactive water feature (splash pad) and gathering space for all ages
*An ultraviolet disinfection system, reducing the need for chemical treatment of the water and allowing for safe water re-use
*Biofiltration basins to capture storm water and increase groundwater recharge
*New pollinator gardens and educational displays
*Public art by Susan Shelton honoring Natalie Corona
*Benches, picnic tables and low-wall seating
*Shade structures
City of Davis Police Officer Natalie Corona was killed in the line of duty on January 10, 2019. In 2020, the Natalie Corona Committee was formed to recommend a place of remembrance for Natalie. In December 2021, the City of Davis received a $2.7 million grant from the Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Grant Program to renovate Central Park. In November 2022, the Davis City Council passed a resolution authorizing the naming of the splash pad as “Natalie’s Corner” and approved the Natalie Corona Committee to assist in raising funds for the Central Park renovation project. Construction of Natalie’s Corner and related improvements to the lawn area started in August 2024.
The Natalie Corona Committee is a community-based group led by former Mayor Lois Wolk and has been actively raising funds to support the project. To date, the committee has raised more than $550,000. To learn more about the ongoing fundraising effort and Natalie’s Coroner, visit: https://nataliescornerdavis.com/. To visit the City’s Central Park improvement project page, visit: www.cityofdavis.org/nataliescorner.