Ozan receives $100,000 FUN Grant
LITTLE ROCK — Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced that the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism is awarding $4.34 million in Outdoor Recreation Grants to projects within 29 counties across the state. The grants fall into two categories: Facilities for Underdeveloped Neighborhoods (FUN) Park grants and matching grants.
“My administration is looking for any opportunity to get kids and families off screens and outdoors. It’s a priority for our whole state,” said Governor Sanders. “This year’s multi-million-dollar investment in playgrounds, park facilities, and more will provide added amenities to communities from the Delta to the Ozarks. It’s all part of my goal to make Arkansas the best state in America to live, work, and raise a family.”
“The Outdoor Recreation Grants Program (ORGP) has provided $52.6 million in matching grants since 1988 and $16.4 million in FUN Park grants since 1991,” said Secretary Shea Lewis. “These funds have undoubtedly enriched the quality of life for Arkansans statewide, fostering greater access to outdoor recreation and bolstering the vitality of local economies.”
These awards have helped cities and counties develop public outdoor recreation facilities.
“Our team works tirelessly throughout the year to provide more access to the outdoors for Arkansans through this grant program,”said Katherine Andrews, Director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation.
“It’s amazing to see the positive impact that even minor investments in neighborhood parks can have on a community,” said Matt McNair, director of the ORGP.“Visiting a community after one of our park projects has been completed can be absolutely stunning.”
Project officers make recommendations regarding the feasibility of proposed facilities, eligibility for grant monies and other facets of the planning process. Each year, nearly 200 site visits are conducted to assist local communities.
The 2024 FUN Park grant recipients are:
- Ozan (Hempstead County) – to install new play area, basketball facility, accessibility features, and park amenities at Ozan Park. – $100,000.00
The 2024 matching grant recipients include:
- Mineral Springs (Howard County) – to repair and upgrade concession stand and restroom facilities and install bleachers at Bridgeman Park. – $30,500.00