Summer is almost here, and Water Works Family Aquatic Center is prepared for a busy season. 

To accommodate and entice the crowd, the water park has implemented deals to save cash, added a slide and built cabanas. "New in 2011 will be a brand new 'frog' tot slide for the little swimmers, and for the ultimate pool experience, three rentable cabanas that will provide a poolside, relaxing and shady place to retreat. The cabanas will be available for rent by the day and will be located in the prime real estate to the left of the walkway at the zero depth edge, making it a perfect choice for families with young children," said Linda Williams from the city's department of Development and Administrative Services.

The 9 by 9 cabanas, named Pacific Blue, Seagrass Green and Sunshine Yellow, cost $30 for members and $40 for nonmembers. Rental includes two chairs, two chaises and a small table.

Water Works had high attendance in 2010 due partly to weather. "Good weather is critical to the success of Water Works Family Aquatic Center," Williams said. "The Memorial Day season opener 2010 showed attendance three times higher than in 2009 with 4,057 visitors over the three-day weekend-- an increase of 78 percent. Seventy-three percent of days the park was open had a high temperature of 80 degrees or warmer, while 2009 had only 31 percent." 

"The busiest day of the year was Monday, July 5 with 2,697 visitors and daily revenue of just under $18,000."

"Overall, Water Works achieved 126 percent of its projected revenue budget for 2010," Williams added. 

Along with weather, the economy is a factor and bolstered the numbers for Water Works.

"Cuyahoga Falls Parks and Recreation doesn't lose sight of the fact that as gas prices soar and the economy continues to tighten, people need to have recreation in their lives," Williams said. "During times when families are not taking traditional vacations, there are things families can do right here in their own backyards."

The Parks and Recreation department introduced summerpac in 2007, a staycation package designed for families on a budget who want to save money on fuel costs and vacation close to home. 

This year for $59, summerpac includes "four individual daily admissions to Water Works Family Aquatic Center, four individual rounds of mini golf at Downview Sports Center, four individual buckets of balls at Downview Sports Center, four individual daily admissions to the Natatorium and four individual boat rides on the Falls River Cruise," said Williams. The approximate value is $136.

In addition, summerpac packages will include discounts and special offers to places like the Akron Zoo, El Mason Mexican Restaurant, Family Video, Rocco's Pizza, Rita's, Stonehedge and Strickland's.

Water Works season passes are 30 percent off if purchased by April 30.