Only one more umbrella will be waiting to pop open Saturday morning in the countdown to the 11 a.m. opening of Cape Splash.

It's crunchtime, and employees have been working to get the park sparkling for an influx of visitors on opening day. Furniture and picnic tables are set up, the pool deck has been power-washed, the lifeguard stands are polished and an umbrella is opened each day.

This is the water park's fourth summer in operation, and employees are gearing up for a busy season.

"I think we're getting the word out more about our facility," Cape Splash facility manager Amy Roth said. "I think people are realizing that it's a great deal, that it's a great family atmosphere."

Roth is hoping for a summer of sunny days and not too much rain. "With the seasonal facility, weather is either our ally or our enemy," Roth said. "It's either our best friend or our worst nightmare."

Tyler Middleton and Sierra Smith pull Christian Retter out of the pool using a backboard Thursday at Cape Splash in Cape Girardeau. Middleton, Smith and Retter were training in passive extraction as part of their water park certification. (Laura Simon)

Last summer's net revenue after paying expenses rose to $191,000, surpassing 2011's revenue of $176,400 after expenses. A percentage of this money is kept back each year in case of major repairs, but the rest goes to the general reserve fund to help cover other expenses within the department.

Since its debut in 2010, Cape Splash has had more than 250,000 visitors. The $6.1 million water park was the most expensive project in a $20 million facilities plan paid for by bonds and a tax passed in an April 2008 election.

"As facility manager, each year I see improvements as far as operations of facility," Roth said. "When you first start something brand new to town, you have nothing to compare it to. Each year it goes smoother and smoother."

Lifeguards have training and certification this week, and all employees have orientation. The park employs about 100 lifeguards and about 55 concessions and admissions employees each summer. Many of these workers are first-timers, and many are in college or high school. Training happens the week of opening so younger workers don't have to dance around finishing up the school year.

Roth said many teachers also work at the park. Even during the summer months, they're still mentors to the younger generation. Roth said that as seasoned employees, the teachers are a great benefit because they act as models for young employees stepping into the work force for the first time.

The park boasts a 700-foot lazy river, a 177-foot open slide, a 140-foot enclosed slide, a vortex swirl pool and a zero-depth leisure pool and splash pads.

Cape Parks and Recreation Department supervisor Penny Williams said the department hopes to have expansion plans in the near future.

"That's always been our goal since we began Cape Splash, that we always think of the future," she said.

The park's consultant, David Markey, is working on conceptual ideas for an expansion that may include additional amenities. Details aren't yet available, but Cape Parks and Recreation director Julia Thompson said the department will present the plan to the city council as soon as next month.

Added benefits for season pass holders are new this year. Members will be able to enter the park at 10:45 a.m. daily. While they won't be able to get in the pool early, they will have the first opportunity to grab their coveted lounge furniture or lockers for that day. There will also be an after-hours party for season pass holders later in the summer.

Cape Splash is bringing back several events from last year, including the Adult Beach Bash on July 18, the morning adult swims, the Little Mermaid/Pirate Party on June 15 and the Youth Triathlon and Kid's Race on June 1.

The Adult Beach Bash will be from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. People who are 18 years or older will have the opportunity to have the run of the park. A movie is shown, and members will have the chance to win free giveaways.

"They have the opportunity to just enjoy the park without the little guys running around, and the lines aren't as long," Williams said. "It's a relaxing atmosphere."

Five adult swims are scheduled, on almost every other Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. The dates include June 15 and 29, July 13 and 27 and Aug. 10.

The adult Beach Bash and adult swims each have a $5 entry fee.

"I enjoy seeing other people, to see where the different groups come from to visit, looking for a great summer," Roth said.

The park can be rented for after-hour rentals. Gift cards can also be bought.

Cape Splash is open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily throughout the summer.

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1565 N. Kingshighway, Cape Girardeau, MO