Shrek’s Swamp Splash Pad Gets New Flooring at Universal Kids Resort
Shrek’s Swamp Splash & Smash is set to reopen with an upgrade that should make playing in the swamp a lot more comfortable. Crews closed the Universal Kids Resort splash pad last week to install cushioned flooring over the concrete, improving both the play surface and its appearance.
The new flooring features a green play area with a brown border, perfect for Shrek’s design aesthetic. We’ve always loved the look of this playground, especially its giant dousing bucket. Its concrete was a little less exciting. So this is a welcome improvement.
A softer surface makes sense for kids running around in water. I haven’t personally seen anyone take a tumble here, but kids aren’t known for being careful while playing. Bare feet on sunbaked concrete weren’t ideal, either.
Crews installed Life Floor, a cushioned, slip-resistant surface designed for aquatic play areas. According to the company, it’s also easy to maintain and resistant to UV light and chemicals.
Here’s how Life Floor describes its product:
“Traction to prevent slips, cushioning to protect falls. Life Floor creates better experiences at aquatic facilities through safety and design. Since 2011, our team has been dedicated to innovative design solutions, increased play value, and inclusivity.”
That sounds like a good fit for a kids’ splash pad. Life Floor is also a Certified Autism Resource through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The company emphasizes creating spaces that accommodate different ways of playing.
That fits with Universal Kids Resort’s own accessibility efforts, which include a published sensory guide for its rides, play areas, and shows. The park is an IBCCES-accredited Certified Autism Center.
Some minor cleanup remains, but Shrek’s splash pad looks close to reopening. My guess is early this week, though Universal hasn’t announced a date. With Frisco still “enjoying” 80-degree weather, there should be plenty of kids willing to test the new floor.
Universal Kids Resort has two other splash pads: the Minions’ Bello Bay Club Splash Pad and Pineapple Paradise in Bikini Bottom. Both have concrete surfaces, so we’d welcome similar upgrades there. We haven’t heard whether either is planned. For now, Shrek’s Swamp gets the glow-up.
Want to learn more about Universal Kids Resort and its seven themed lands? We’ve got you covered. Visit our Universal Kids Resort hub for everything available at the new Frisco theme park.
