Explanation
Background: This ordinance authorizes the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department to enter into a grant agreement with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) for improvements to Sullivant Gardens Park. This ordinance will also authorize the acceptance and appropriation of the grant funds. The grant amount available for this project being authorized by this ordinance is $100,000.00.
In April of 2025, the Recreation and Parks Department was awarded a NatureWorks grant from ODNR for improvements to the greenspace adjacent to the Sullivant Gardens Community Center. The grant funding will be used for improvements of an existing open field along the east side of the Community Center. The improvements will create a space suitable for recreational sports, open play, parking, a walkway, and fencing. The project is expected to begin design in late 2025 and is intended to be under construction in summer of 2026.
Principal Parties:
Ohio Department of Natural Resources
2045 Morse Road, Building E-2
Columbus, Ohio 43229
Dolores Burlison, (614) 265-6834
Emergency Justification: Emergency action is requested so the Director can sign the agreement by the deadline grant date of October 1, 2025.
Benefits to the Public: This project will provide recreational play space in one of the city's most at-risk neighborhoods.
Community Input/Issues: Public engagement with the surrounding community and Sullivant Gardens staff was conducted in 2024. Converting the unused greenspace adjacent to the Community Center is considered a top priority.
Area(s) Affected: Franklinton (54)
Master Plan Relation: This project will support the Recreation and Parks’ Master Plan by nurturing an active and healthy community while bringing nature into focus.
Fiscal Impact: This ordinance will authorize the appropriation of $100,000.00 in grant funds in the Recreation and Parks Grant Fund 2283. Future legislation will be prepared to expend these funds once the project is re...
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