Dogs and people happened to converge on the fountain but it was clear and dry. Temperatures were well above freezing so we all wondered why there was no water. It is a mystery fountain. [photo 1] [photo 2] [photo 3]
Fifth & Huron
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The fountain by the Michigan League hasn’t been turned on yet either (at least not as of Wednesday the 18th). And don’t forget it was 19° F that morning…
[some water fountains in city parks are not yet turned on either]
I was under the impression that this fountain was different, because it was designed to be self draining. So it could theoretically run at any time in the winter if it was above a certain temperature. My memory is something around 45 degrees. And that was part of the information presented. It doesn’t have to be drained and would run on warm days year round. In the case of the Ingalls fountain for example, that has to be blown out with compressed air as well. So it has a long “off” period. That is why it is a mystery to me.
It is my understanding that the fountain relies on accumulated rain water. The lack of rainfall last summer left the fountain dry and not operating for long periods.
I read a weather report (issued before the light rain last night) that said we have had only one inch of precipitation since the March 13 snow storm. That dry period may explain why the fountain is not working. We may get some rain tonight and that may activate this fountain.
This was all pointed out by critics before the fountain was funded but the Mayor and his appointees on the AAPAC all ignored the feedback. After all, it’s just under a million dollars,not real money.