A new shade structure and accessible concrete pathways that are currently being constructed at Eli Joyce Field in City Park were made possible due to grants applied for and received from various entities, including local, regional, and state charitable organizations.
The project includes the construction of a shade structure along the third base line as well as ADA accessibility improvements, which will consist of the construction of sidewalk paths and concrete pads under and surrounding the seating areas. This project received $27,632 from grants applied for and received from state, regional, and local organizations.
At the state level, the project received a large portion of its funding from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources NatureWorks grant. NatureWorks projects are funded through the Ohio Parks and Natural Resources Bond Issue, which was approved by Ohio voters in November 1993. The NatureWorks grant program provides up to 75% reimbursement assistance for local government subdivisions for the acquisition, development, and rehabilitation of recreational areas. Since NatureWorks’ inception, the grant has funded over 2300 public park projects in all 88 counties. The NatureWorks grant received for this project was for $20,132.
Regionally, the Board of Trustees of the Greater Toledo Community Foundation approved a grant from the Toledo Mud Hens Baseball Club’s Helping Hens Fund toward the project in the amount of $5,000. Grants from this fund are made to nonprofit organizations seeking to provide programming that promotes the overall fitness and wellness of children enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade. Funds must be used to facilitate participation in an organization’s exercise, sports, and/or physical recreation programming. Greater Toledo Community Foundation is a public charitable organization created by citizens of our community to enrich the quality of life for individuals and families in our area.
Locally, a $2,500 grant from the Bowling Green Community Foundation contributed toward the project as well. The Bowling Green Community Foundation exists to improve the quality of life in the Bowling Green area by providing funding and support for diverse and innovative programs that enhance the health, welfare, and vitality of the Bowling Green community. Private contributions are the sole support of the foundation. The foundation achieves its purpose through its grant program. At the end of each calendar year, and after careful evaluation of the applications submitted to the foundation, the grants committee distributes funds to be used the following year. Its selections may include proposals written for educational or sports activities, health or safety initiatives, environmental sustainability, as well as for the visual or performing arts.
The Bowling Green Parks and Recreation Foundation provided financial support for the project as well. This organization works with the Bowling Green Parks and Recreation Department in helping to raise and allocate funds that go toward enhancing open spaces, facilities, and programs in the city, and, in turn, help build a stronger community.
Many different departments within the City of Bowling Green contributed efforts and time towards the completion of this project, including staff from the Parks and Recreation Department, Public Works Department, and Electrical Division.
Kristin Otley, parks and recreation director, stated, “The Bowling Green Parks and Recreation staff is appreciative of the support of all these organizations and excited to be making this improvement in City Park that will benefit so many people as they visit for structured or unstructured recreational activity.”
