The state of Alabama is receiving more than $2 million for recreational projects, Gov. Kay Ivey announced Tuesday.

The money was made available through the Land and Water Conservation Fund, a U.S. Department of Interior program to aid states in the growth and preservation of outdoor recreational facilities.

“The additions and improvements resulting from these awards are another reason for Alabamians to take advantage of the great outdoors at local parks across the state,” Ivey said. “I commend local leaders for understanding that parks and playgrounds contribute so much to a community’s health and well-being.”

ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell, whose department manages the program in Alabama, echoed the governor’s message of gratitude.

“Parks and playgrounds that are well-maintained and frequently used are not only invitations for residents to get outside, but they also provide an identity and point of pride for communities,” said Boswell. “ADECA joins Gov. Ivey in commending local leaders for securing these grants to improve their communities.”

The awards are:

• Ider ($220,475) – The town will replace more than 4,000 feet of fencing and gates around the perimeter and ballfields at Ider Town Park.
• Lincoln ($500,000)- Lincoln will construct an eight-foot-wide concrete walking path, access road and parking lot, picnic shelter, restroom and install playground equipment and fencing along with sign upgrades at Stemley Road Park.
• Valley ($156,173) – The city will construct a playground, dog park, sidewalk, entrance ramp, and benches at Shawmut Park.
• Crenshaw County Commission ($500,000) – The county will construct a 1.3-mile, 10-foot-wide lighted asphalt trail and install wooden boardwalk bridges and benches at Crenshaw County Sports Complex in Luverne.
• Eufaula ($273,987) – Eufaula will construct eight pickleball courts, including two that are compliant with the American Disabilities Act, and build sidewalks at Reeves Recreation Park.
• Geneva ($483,500) – The city of Geneva plans to construct a playground along with another playground accessible to people with challenges on the site of the former Phillip-Van Heusen Corp. textile mill in addition to constructing a gazebo, walkways, lighting, restrooms and landscaping.

Recipients of the grants are required to equally match the amount of the award with cash or in-kind commitments.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.

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