Bob McFadden Plaza opens to great fanfare in downtown Carson City (photo gallery, video)

Bob McFadden Plaza opened with a splash Saturday and no one enjoyed it more than the dozens of kids keeping cool in sweltering weather.

“I look around and I look at that splash pad,” said Mayor Bob Crowell, before the ribbon cutting. “This is what defines community.”

It was about 10 a.m., and already 80-plus degrees, when Crowell took to the new stage there to introduce a handful of people who were instrumental in getting the pedestrian plaza built.

He thanked Jenny and Mark Lopiccolo, who own the St. Charles Hotel and provided an easement on their property; Rob McFadden and the McFadden family, who donated $125,000; and nearby restaurant owners Jim Phalan, Firkin & Fox, and Doug and Jamesa Cramer, Mom & Pop’s Diner.

“Thanks for putting up with all the construction,” said Crowell. “On behalf of a grateful community, we thank you.”

The plaza on 3rd Street between Carson and Curry streets was built by Q&D Construction as part of the project to replace water and sewer lines, narrow Carson Street and widen sidewalks to create a more inviting downtown.

The plaza features the 36-foot permanent stage, the 12-foot circle splash pad and a new patio for Firkin & Fox.

“I think it’s awesome,” said Mike Warner, a Carson City father who was watching his two young kids race around the splash pad. “It’s a great way for kids to cool off.”

Jeff Bean, vice president, Q&D, said there were a few finishing touches to add, including more benches, after the grand opening.

“It’s not going to be just a place for families and kids, but a great venue for bands and enjoying hot summer nights,” said Nick Marano, city manager.

The plaza also will be available for special events and can be booked through the Carson City Business License division.

“I love it. We do a big street party once a year and it will benefit us to have a built-in stage,” said Lisa Lee, executive director, Advocates To End Domestic Violence, which last weekend held its annual Taste of Downtown event.

The plaza also will host the new farmers market on Wednesdays from 4-7 p.m. through October and some art vendors from the Saturday farmers market, who were on hand for the grand opening.

Saturday’s festivities started with a pancake breakfast provided by Mom & Pop’s Diner and included a bounce house, face painting and from Q&D a loader, backhoe, two excavators and roller for kids to explore.

The evening celebration was scheduled to feature Trippin’ King Snakes and DJ Red on stage, appetizers from Firkin & Fox and a champagne toast supplied by Bella Fiore Wines and commemorative glasses provided by the McFadden family.