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(Columbus) – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has approved more than $5.2 million through the NatureWorks grant program to improve recreation opportunities across the state.
“We are happy to partner with local communities to help them improve and develop outdoor recreation sites across the state,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “These grants will provide exceptional opportunities to expand local parks and encourage more people to get out into the fresh air.”
ODNR approved 115 projects in 79 counties. Projects include acquisition of new park lands and development of playgrounds, trails, restrooms, baseball fields, basketball courts, tennis and pickleball courts, swimming pools, kayak launches, disc golf courses, and more. Some approved projects include:
Scioto County
- Valley Township Trustees for the Valley Township Park Amphitheater – $40,782
Delaware County
- City of Sunbury for the Reservoirs Park Fishing Pier & ADA Access Walk – $46,974
Franklin County
- City of Westerville for the Westerville Veterans Memorial – $150,000
- A full list of approved projects can be found here.
“These grants provide us a way to invest in outdoor recreation all over Ohio,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “This program gives communities the opportunity to make their local sites better for their families, friends, and neighbors.”
NatureWorks grants provide up to 75% reimbursement assistance to local government subdivisions (townships, villages, cities, counties, park districts, joint recreation districts, and conservancy districts) 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.
