Zoombezi Bay waterpark, part of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Powell, Ohio, celebrated the launch of its latest expansion as it opened for the new season.

The US$3.7m (€3.1m, £2.8m) expansion project, dubbed Otter Banks, was designed by Aquatic Development Group (ADG) – the same company that originally developed the 22.7-acre (9.2-hectare) waterpark, which opened in 2008.

Otter Banks features three new pools which can be enjoyed from adjacent lounge areas and new cabanas. It brings more slides and water rides to Zoombezi Bay and creates much needed capacity for the facility, which attracts around 400,000 people per year. The expansion itself can accommodate 500 guests at a time.

ADG’s Adventure Lagoon water ride is a focal point of the new zone, which also boasts new aquaplay areas, waterfalls, and an inflatables and slide complex featuring two 30ft (9.1m) drop slides.

“Our goal here is to not have people standing in long lines, so the more activities we have, and the more space we have, the less lines people are going to be standing in,” said John Gannon, general manager of Zoombezi Bay.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium president and CEO Tom Stalf added: “We’re incredibly excited for the opening of Otter Banks. This aquatic attraction gives us the opportunity to provide our guests with an experience unlike any other in Central Ohio to include both adventure and relaxation while also offering more space and shorter lines during their visit.”