Park grant would fund Riverside improvements

FINDLAY — The city of Findlay is seeking $70,000 in grant funding from the Hancock Park District for several improvement projects at Riverside Park, 231 McManness Ave. In a letter to Findlay City Council, dated Aug. 28, Service-Safety Director Rob Martin outlined the city's application for the annual Community Park Improvement Grant program. Findlay's Public Works Department is applying for funds for three projects. Council gave verbal approval to submit the application at its Sept. 2 regular meeting. The park district offers grants each year to communities in Hancock County to improve their park systems. The grant money is then divided among the communities that apply. No matching funds are required. The city's proposal includes: • $20,000 to replace the seating area near the bandshell with stamped, colored concrete, and to install a handicap-accessible ramp to the stage. City crews would complete the work. • $25,000 to repair and seal brick shelters at Riverside Park, including tuckpointing and fixing mortar joints. A local contractor would be hired for the job. • $25,000 to replace deteriorating walking paths at Riverside Park, with work again handled by city staff. The grants have funded numerous renovations at Riverside Park, including upgrades to the bandshell, shelters and walking paths.