Barnesville Awarded Parks Grant

COLUMBUS, OHIO — New playgrounds, splashpads, pickleball courts, and other recreational facilities will soon enhance parks across Ohio, thanks to more than $3.4 million in funding from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) NatureWorks grant program.

“These projects are crucial in building stronger connections to the outdoors,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “We are proud and excited to partner with communities statewide to bring exceptional opportunities for recreation to every Ohioan.”

ODNR approved 86 projects in 73 counties. The grants will fund developments such as new and renovated playgrounds, splashpads, sports courts, trails, dog parks, kayak launches, disc golf courses, and park amenities including restrooms, lighting, and parking.

“These grants are all about providing a variety of options so communities can offer the very best amenities for everyone to enjoy the great outdoors,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz.

Locally, Barnesville was the only community in Belmont County to receive a grant. The village was awarded $24,742 to develop two new ball fields off of Pultney Avenue near Barnesville Hospital. The fields were primarily prepared during the past year.

Other projects receiving grants in eastern Ohio are Byesville Village Park, Tappan Lake Park near Cadiz and the Belpre Township Park in Washington County.

See the full list of awards on the ODNR website.