Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Mary Mertz today awarded $1.7 million in grants to support dozens of new outdoor recreation projects in local communities across the state.
“We are excited to help communities all over Ohio create fun, safe, and inclusive outdoor recreation opportunities,” said Governor DeWine. “These grants help local parks improve and upgrade their outdoor spaces for citizens of Ohio.”
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The grants, awarded as part of the NatureWorks program, will support 68 outdoor recreation projects in 62 counties. Projects include the development of playgrounds, natural playscapes, trails, restrooms, dog parks, baseball fields, basketball courts, tennis and pickleball courts, splash pads, and picnic shelters.
“These grants give us an opportunity to partner with local communities and invest in outdoor recreation across the Buckeye State,” said Director Mertz. “We are always looking for ways to get families and friends to get out and enjoy the beautiful spaces that can be found right in their own neighborhoods.”
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Projects Receiving Funding in the Mahoning Valley:
Columbiana County
New Waterford
Park Playground Revitalization & Replacement
Ferguson Park: Replace deteriorated playground equipment with a new structure
$36,190
Mahoning County
Canfield
Fair Park Bike Playground/Skills Course
Fair Park Install a bike playground and skills course for all ages
$29,867
Trumbull County
City of Niles
The City of Niles Restroom Project
Waddell Park
Construct ADA-compliant restroom facilities
$27,142
NatureWorks grants provide up to 75% reimbursement assistance to local government subdivisions for the acquisition, development, and rehabilitation of recreational areas. Projects are funded through the Ohio Parks and Natural Resources Bond Issue, which was approved by Ohioans in November 1993. Additional legislation authorized the creation of the NatureWorks Grant Program.
