Detroit Diesel Corporation Joins Wayne County and Redford Township in Sponsoring New Splash Pad at Capitol Park

Ceremony marks official grand opening of new local attraction

DETROIT, June 26 -- A collaborative project between Wayne County, Redford Township and Detroit Diesel Corporation (DDC) to install an aquatic play area in the Township came to fruition earlier today with the grand opening of the "Splash Pad at Capitol Park." Located across from the Redford Township Community Center at the corners of Hemingway and Capitol Streets, the Splash Pad comprises 3,000 sq. ft. and features 12 urban-themed water elements. It is a zero-depth aquatic play area where children can enjoy stimulating and interactive experiences in a safe environment.

"DDC is the largest employer in Redford Township and we strive to be both good neighbors and good corporate citizens in the community," said Carsten J. Reinhardt, President and Chief Executive Officer of Detroit Diesel. "Earlier this year, we approached Redford Township officials with the suggestion that we work jointly on a project to benefit the youth in our community. Wayne County also expressed interest in joining with us and the idea for a splash pad was born."

Splash pads are becoming popular in many local communities as they combine innovative design, play value and durability with safety, affordability and low-cost operation. With elements ranging from gentle mists to dynamic interactive play, splash pads offer entertainment for everyone. And the zero-depth surface, with no accumulation of water, eliminates the risk of drowning.

This aquatic play area was constructed by Engan-Tooley-Doyle and Associates of Okemos, Michigan, and took approximately 60 days to complete. In addition to the Splash Pad itself, the area also incorporates brick pavers, retaining walls and custom landscaping, as well as benches and picnic tables. The work was completed through the cooperative efforts of the following Redford Township Departments: Building, Community Development, Parks and Water,

"From start to finish, this Splash Pad project has truly been a cooperative effort," said Phil Cavanagh, Wayne County Commissioner. "Beginning with the joint funding from Detroit Diesel, Redford Township and Wayne County; to the design and development of the play area; to the hard work of all involved in its final implementation, it is the combined efforts of all involved that have made the Splash Pad in Redford Township a reality."

Detroit Diesel Corporation is a leading manufacturer of on-highway heavy- duty diesel engines for the commercial truck market. The company offers a complete line of engines from 170 to 515 horsepower for the on-highway and vocational markets. Through its corporate headquarters in Detroit, Michigan, Detroit Diesel is engaged in the design, manufacture, sale and service of these products, in addition to supporting alternative and hybrid engine strategies for the commercial truck marketplace. Detroit Diesel is a subsidiary of DaimlerChrysler and part of the Freightliner group of companies.

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