Almost $1 million allocated for Washington County parks

Grant program to help expand local recreation opportunities-

WASHINGTON COUNTY – Under the leadership of Governor Charlie Crist and the Florida Legislature, the 2008-2009 budget includes $24 million to expand and improve local parks statewide. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) will grant Washington County $949,000 to develop and enhance community parks, providing outdoor recreation opportunities and improving public access to Florida’s natural resources.

“Outdoor recreation areas and facilities are a vital part of Florida’s economy, drawing both Floridians and visitors to experience the state’s natural resources,” said DEP Secretary Michael W. Sole. “With the support of Governor Crist and the Florida Legislature, FRDAP funding allows Florida cities and counties to develop and enhance local parks while uniting their communities through recreational opportunities.”

Washington County projects funded in this year’s budget include:

•Town of Caryville, Hodges Park West - The funds will be used for a new softball field, playground, picnic facility and restroom/concession stand.
•City of Chipley, PALS Park, Phase V - The money will be used for a new baseball field, and to renovate the softball field.
•Town of Ebro, Obie T. Morrell Park, Phase I - The funds will be used for a new playground, basketball court, picnic facilities and shuffleboard court.
•Town of Ebro, Obie T. Morrell Park, Phase II - The money will be used for a new playground, exercise trail, picnic facilities and shuffleboard court.
•Washington County, Daniel's Lake Recreation Facility - The funds will be used for a new playground, picnic facilities, camping facilities, horse trail, hiking trail, nature trail, lighting, landscaping, parking and horse stalls, and to renovate the restrooms.
•Town of Wausau, Town Park, Phase II - The money will be used for a new baseball field and security lighting.
•Town of Wausau, Town Park - The funds will be used for a new playground, picnic facility, shuffleboard court, restroom, access road and parking.

“Reserving space and funds for recreation is essential to the healthy growth of Florida’s communities and citizens,” said DEP’s Florida Division of Recreation and Parks Director Mike Bullock. “The FRDAP program continues to facilitate city and county park growth and enhancement, strengthening families and the protection of Florida’s natural resources.”

Administered by DEP, the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) is a competitive grant program, providing funds to local communities for public outdoor recreation. Over the last decade, Florida has invested more than $250 million to improve local park facilities through this grant program, funding more than 2,000 projects statewide. Enhancements to local parks include improvements and renovations to playground and picnic facilities such as pavilions, tables and benches, ball fields, tennis and basketball courts, concession areas, lighting, fencing, restroom and shower facilities, parking areas, trails, grounds and landscaping, beach docks, piers and boardwalks.

For a list of funded projects and information about applying for a FRDAP grant, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/OIRS/default.htm.