Riverside Park may get more upgrades

FINDLAY — More improvements could be heading for Findlay's Riverside Park thanks to the annual Community Park Improvement Grant program offered through the Hancock County Park District. Findlay's Public Works Department is applying for funds for three projects. City council gave its verbal approval of the application at Tuesday's regular meeting. The park district offers the grant each year to communities in Hancock County to improve their park systems. The grant money is then divided among the communities that apply. "These funds are at no cost to the community and do not require matching funds," said Findlay Service Safety Director Rob Martin, in a letter to council, dated Aug. 28. "The city has completed many projects in our parks using these grant dollars." A total of $15,000 is being requested for new concrete to extend the bandshell at Riverside Park, 231 McManness Ave. The stage would be extended 12 feet by 52 feet. The work would be performed by city crews. Martin said new seating for the bandshell will be requested in the city's capital budget for next year. Findlay is also seeking $25,000 to repair the brick walls at the shelter houses, including tuck and point work, fixing mortar joints and sealing the brick. If awarded, Martin said the work will be performed by a local contractor. An additional $25,000 is being sought to replace walking paths at the park, with the work to be performed by city crews. Earlier this year, Findlay was awarded a $22,000 grant from the park district. The money was used for the restoration of the main restroom and main electrical building at the park. The restoration work included removing loose and defective mortar joints, power washing the building, tuck and point work and sealing the building. The city contracted for the work.