PETERSBURG — Looking to improve recreation facilities, Township Committee has turned its attention to Amanda’s Field and Caldwell Park.
The governing body adopted a group of resolutions Nov. 28 that clears the way for an application to the state Department of Community Affairs for playground facilities at the Amanda’s Field Park that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Committeewoman Kim Hayes said the Small Cities Development Block Grants offered this year by the state are targeted at improving access for all, so the township is working with Triad Associates of Vineland to try to secure funding.
“We are looking for ways to get grant money to improve and upgrade our existing facilities throughout the township,” Hayes said. “The idea is to create a harder surface for wheelchair access and upgrade equipment to make it more accessible.”
One of the resolutions adopted a grant management plan, naming Mayor Curtis Corson as program director and coordinating all activities, while another agrees to follow certain state regulations.
Hayes said Triad recommended adopting the resolutions as a way of making the township’s application more attractive.
“Overseeing recreation, my goal has been to upgrade and improve existing facilities before we look to expand into new facilities,” Hayes said. “It always comes down to funding, so we need to get creative on how we accomplish our goals.”
Township engineer Paul Dietrich said they are still working on the final scope of the project and that it would take three to six months from the time of an award to completion.
Todd Noon of Triad Associate said applications are due Dec. 7 and the DCA indicated it expected to make award announcements in January.
“We’re ready to rock ‘n’ roll on it as soon as the money comes through,” Hayes said.
By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff