Agenda Text
title
Requesting authorization to apply for the FY20 PARC Grant program for the Central Hill Playground.
body
Official Text
To the Honorable City Council:
I respectfully request that you approve an authorization to seek funding and enter into any understandings or assurances with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to receive funds to assist in the development of the relocated Central Hill Playground, at 79 Highland Avenue at the corner of Highland Avenue and Walnut Street, and adjacent to Somerville Public Library. The estimated construction cost for the project is $689,655 and the Administration seeks the maximum grant amount of $400,000.
The playground is currently in the community input and design process, with renovations scheduled to begin in 2020. Improving the quality of the open space and recreational facilities in Somerville is a city priority, and this will significantly increase the quality of life for our youngest residents and ensure the playground is accessible to all. This application for $400,000 is the maximum allowed through this program and represents 58% of the construction costs. The grant program requires a non-state match. To that end, the balance of funds will be provided by a local contribution of $289,655, all or a portion of which may be provided by the Community Preservation Act, pending approval of the Community Preservation Committee.
The proposed grant funding will be used to support construction of an updated playground on Central Hill, which is undergoing renovations, with a new water feature and play structures. The new playground will be thematically connected to Somerville Public Library, which is adjacent to the playground space, with appropriate elements and will offer accessible play elements for an inclusive design.
This application is for a PARC grant to the Massachusetts Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, through its Division of Conservation Services. The PARC grant application is due on July 11, 2019, to qualify for the FY2020 grant round. Since this is reimbursement funding, the City hereby assures the State that we have the funds to finance the renovation of Central Hill Playground, and will provide the State with the appropriate documentation for reimbursement.
My staff will be available to answer any questions you may have. Thank your for your consideration of this item.
Respectfully submitted,
Joseph A. Curtatone, Mayor