2008/12/31 - 2009 Neighborhood Park Grants Available

Press Release #: 09-01
Date: 2008/12/31
Contact: Rich Bemm
Phone: 442-5400

Longview City Council sets aside $25,000 for neighborhood grants

Concerned over their ability to fund all the neighborhood park needs in Longview, the City Council has approved the funding of the neighborhood park grant program for the twelfth year.  This program will provide resident groups with matching funds for neighborhood improvement projects.  The deadline for submitting an application is Feb. 2, 2009.

The City is committed to promoting and sustaining an environment that is responsive to resident involvement.  The intent of the grant program is to encourage the involvement of neighborhoods and organizations to work together towards a common goal.  Service groups, neighborhood groups, athletic organizations, and business organizations can apply for all or a portion of the available $25,000 to match with their own funds and/or in-kind services and materials.  The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board will review the applications received and make recommendations to the City Council about which project(s) should be funded.

The Council feels it can increase the amount of improvements made to local parks by supporting this grant program through the funding of 50% of the work as a shared effort.  Examples of qualifying projects include:  land acquisition; purchase of new playground equipment, picnic shelters, benches and landscape materials; construction of sports courts such as tennis and basketball; development of hiking and biking paths; and, athletic field development.

The application for funds is handled through the Parks and Recreation Department.  Interested parties may obtain application forms from the Recreation office at 2920 Douglas St., or online at www.mylongview.com.  For additional information, please contact Parks and Recreation Director Rich Bemm at 442.5400.  Applications are due Feb. 2

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