Home / Lifestyle / City Saves $150K by Restoring Water Slides
City Saves $150K by Restoring Water Slides
24 Jun
Summary
- Water slides received a UV protective coating, restoring original colors.
- The city saved an estimated $150,000 by refinishing slides instead of replacing them.
- The new coating is expected to last 10 years, protecting against fading.

The outdoor water park in Mitchell has unveiled its revitalized water slides, thanks to a recent application of advanced ultraviolet protection. Spencer Maeschen of MAD Garage led the project, using a ceramic coating similar to automotive paint to restore the slides' original vibrant colors. This process eliminated the need for new paint and effectively brought back the glossy finish.
The aquatic center, which opened in 2006, had slides original to its construction. City officials noted the slides' finish had worn significantly over the years, prompting the restoration. Replacing the slides would have cost an estimated $150,000 to over $150,000, a figure significantly higher than the $15,000 spent on the refinishing project.
The protective coating is expected to last for 10 years and has been applied at a thickness of six to seven mils, offering substantial UV protection. This initiative not only revitalized the appearance of the slides but also provided a cost-effective solution for the city, preserving a key attraction at a fraction of the replacement cost.