Hunterdon County Commissioners will consider $1.242 million in municipal parks and recreation grants at Dec. 17 meeting
HUNTERDON COUNTY, NJ – Hunterdon County Commissioners announced at the December 3rd meeting that an additional $242,000 in grant funding will be allocated toward the Municipal Park and Recreational Grant Program, supplementing the already appropriated $1 million in grant funds.
At the December 3rd County Commissioner meeting, an update was provided to board members by Jacqueline Dirmann of T&M Associates, an outside engineering firm retained by the commissioners to conduct an independent review of grant applications submitted by local municipalities. Ms. Dirmann provided an overview of each of the grant submissions, the scoring criteria, and recommended grant amounts for each municipality.
Given the significant interest in the grant program, the Commissioner Board agreed to appropriate an additional $242,000 which be used to support new trail developments, renovations of existing park amenities, and the creation of accessible recreational areas for people of all abilities.
Commissioner Director Jeff Kuhl stated, “This increase in funding underscores the county’s commitment to enhancing local parks and recreation opportunities for all municipalities within Hunterdon County. Land preservation plays a crucial role in safeguarding our environment and local heritage and reflects this Board’s dedication to ensuring that our municipalities have the resources they need to develop and improve public recreational spaces.”
Applications for the Municipal Park Grants Program were highly competitive, with 19 municipalities seeking funds from the initial $1 million in available grant funds. All applicants will be required to contribute 25% of the total project cost, through utilizing matching funds from private donations, municipal contributions, along with state and federal grants.
Director Kuhl shared, “As a Commissioner Board we understand the importance of supporting municipal partnerships at the local level, and this additional funding will enable the county to support a broader range of projects aimed at improving community spaces, promoting outdoor activities, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this funding will have on local communities,” Kuhl said.
To view a list of the proposed Municipal Park Grants, click here.
