Ritter Applauds ODNR Grant Funding for Local Park Projects

COLUMBUS, Ohio - State Representative Kevin Ritter (R-Marietta) today announced funding to support projects at several local parks in the 94th House District through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources' (ODNR) NatureWorks grant program.

"Our local parks serve an important purpose for families and communities around the district, and I'm pleased to see funding allocated toward supporting park upgrades so that they can continue to be valuable assets here in our state," said Rep. Ritter.

Park projects approved for the 94th House District include the following:

Meigs County's Village of Racine will receive $32,795.00 in grant funding for improvements and enhancements at Star Mill Park to install a pickleball court fence and an accessible sidewalk to the ballfield, along with a basketball court resurfacing.
Washington County's Village of Beverly will receive $20,127.00 in grant funding for upgrades to playground equipment at Dodge Park.
Athens County's Village of Albany will receive $18,694.00 in grant funding for Albany Village Park to install three new playground pieces, mulch, and a concrete ramp.

Last week, ODNR announced the approval of more than $2.9 million in project funding that will be distributed across 76 projects that will improve outdoor recreational opportunities for Ohioans.

The 76 projects span across 64 counties in Ohio. Awardees will use the funding to buy new park land and develop new or renovated playgrounds, which include splashpads, sports courts including pickleball and basketball courts. Other project needs include trails and walking paths, pavilions, exercise equipment, and other park amenities such as restrooms, lighting, and parking.