Communities and entities in Lake, Geauga and Cuyahoga
counties have taken advantage of a state voter-approved grant program designed
to enhance recreational activities.
Called “NatureWorks,” the program is weighted application
process in which local governments can solicit the state for partial financial
aid in constructing trails and amenities.
NatureWorks was first approved by Ohio voters more than a decade ago who then voted
again to continue with the program.
In all, 92 grants were awarded by the state with the program
administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
Besides the NatureWorks’ money additional funding was
supplied by the federal government’s Land and Water Conservation Fund grant program.
Recipients are required to apply at least a 25-percent match
in order to qualify for the state-administered funding.
In Lake County, $8,070 was awarded to Painesville City for a
new picnic shelter and fencing at its Huntington Park. The total cost for this
project is $15,400, with Painesville responsible for the remainder of the
expense.
Also, Cleveland Metroparks was awarded $30,940 for a $41,440
project for trail improvements at the agency’s North Chagrin Reservation which
is partially located in Lake County’s Willoughby Hills.
Geauga County’s Hambden Township was awarded $25,320 for a $33,760
trails project at the community’s Hambden Township Park.
A quartet of Cuyahoga County cities also were the recipients
of grant money: Parma Heights ($56,625),
Shaker Heights ($60,000), Bedford Heights ($18,000), and Fairview Park ($55,534).
- Jeffrey L. Frischkorn
JFrischk@Ameritech.net
No comments:
Post a Comment