Somerset County Rec & Parks awarded $1 million for improvements
ANNAPOLIS — It was Somerset County’s turn this past meeting of the Board of Public Works (BPW) to be awarded $1 million in park infrastructure funding with most of it earmarked for the …
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Somerset County Rec & Parks awarded $1 million for improvements
ANNAPOLIS — It was Somerset County’s turn this past meeting of the Board of Public Works (BPW) to be awarded $1 million in park infrastructure funding with most of it earmarked for the Long Centralized Athletic Complex in Westover.
Part of an $85 million park infrastructure bill requested by Gov. Larry Hogan and passed last year by the General Assembly it was approved April 6 by the BPW.
Eighty percent of the proceeds are for the Westover park. The plan is to expand the existing fields and parking, and install irrigation and lighting. Playground equipment that meets National Playground Safety Standards and the Americans with Disabilities Act will be additional amenities.
In Princess Anne, the Ruritan Ballpark next to the Somerset County Civic Center will also receive an ADA-approved playground, a half basketball court, and a small dog park. The estimate for this is $120,000.
On Old State Road in Crisfield the Glenn Ward Memorial Ballfield is slated for regrading, along with the construction of a half basketball court and installation of ADA-approved playground equipment. The estimate for this is $80,000.
When advising the County Commissioners of the available funding last year Recreation & Parks Director Clint Sterling said this funding represents “a rare occurrence” and requires no match from the county.
One major goal was to be mindful of play space for children with physical challenges, and add amenities that were in high demand, sustainable and meet funding guidelines.
“We are grateful for the funding that, in conjunction with our planned Program Open Space projects, make significant improvements to all of our parks and playgrounds,” Mr. Sterling said.
“The goal of the department is to increase access to our public spaces by putting forth projects that seek to serve all of our citizens. The largest project at Long Centralized in Westover will allow larger groups, alleviate the crunch for field space, create more opportunities for events and position us to have a presence in the tournament side of the recreation market.”
