The updated design plans for a new water feature at Rock Creek Park have been approved by county officials.

"We're one step closer and that makes us happy. We'll have it ready this summer," said Vernon Smith, president of the Rotary Club of Dawson County.

The project is expected to break ground in mid-July.

The club earlier this year committed to building a three-dimensional, interactive splash pad at the park at an estimated cost of $54,000 for the first phase.

The splash pad is the club's biggest project since forming in 1992 and will be funded by proceeds from its annual golf tournaments over three years. The club is also selling commemorative bricks to be placed at the park.

"We're allowing people to purchase a permanent collaborative brick for $100 that will be a part of the Rotary Splash Park for many years to come," said Incoming President Scott Yochum.

As the club's signature project, the initial plans called for the international Rotary emblem as the splash pad's centerpiece, but cost and maintenance forced the group to reconsider.

The club had hoped to have the splash pad ready by Memorial Day, but the changes have warranted a later opening date.

With the May 15 vote to approve the project, the county commission also ratified an agreement for the club to construct the splash pad, as well as waived the permitting fees up to $80 required to begin construction.

The club is still awaiting approval of an intergovernmental agreement between the county and Etowah Water and Sewer Authority, which outlines that the authority will provide up to $5,000 annually in water for the splash pad, before construction can begin.

An attorney for the authority is currently reviewing a draft of the document.