LAPLACE — Residents looking for ways to cool off during the hot days of summer or for more options with their pets can turn to the Parish’s newest Parks and Recreation options.

Two St. John the Baptist Parish spray parks and one dog park are scheduled to open next week.

The St. John the Baptist Parish Council recently amended the Code of Ordinances to include park rules and regulations, and Parks and Recreation Director Kerry Watkins said the only thing left to do is put up signs.

“We didn’t have rules and regulations before because we didn’t have spray parks or a dog park before,” Watkins said. “Things that were added to the ordinance were the hours of operation, children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult at the spray parks, proper swim attire is required, no smoking and things like that. There are also a lot of safety rules.”

One of the spray parks and the dog park are located at Thomas F. Daley Memorial Park on U.S. 51 in LaPlace, while the other spray park is located at the Regala Park in Reserve.

The spray parks will be open noon through 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, while the dog park will be open from 7 a.m. until dusk seven days a week.

“A spray park is like a misting and cooling station,” Watkins said. “There will be spray nozzles, dump buckets and other things for kids to run through and cool off. It’s just another option than a swimming pool. The dog park has several sitting areas, dog play areas and dog obstacle courses. It’s an open area for pet owners to let their pets run around freely without having to be on a leash.”

Parish President Natalie Robottom said the additions offer new opportunities for youth and their families to enjoy time together outdoors.

Watkins said parish leaders are looking to open the parks Monday once the signs are made and posted.

“(The spray parks) are another feature for families to enjoy when they are at the parks,” Watkins said. “During the summer months, especially with how hot it is, the pool might not be available and the spray parks are just a great feature. It’s a nice improvement for our parks. We are excited to have the spray and dog parks. We are asking that residents help maintain them and keep them functional because it’s for them.”

Watkins said the new recreational options are things residents have asked for.

“We try our best to provide things to better our community,” he said. “I’m excited to get them open. I get calls every day about it. I’m anxious to see the kids participate and use the features. I’m expecting a real big crowd and to be really busy over the summer.”