Collier is gearing up for some projects at its parks after receiving a $200,000 grant from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

The money will allow the township to make equipment upgrades to Kelly and Hilltop parks and install a digital sign in front of the Collier Community Center.

The total cost for the projects is estimated at just over $400,000, said Kyle Thauvette, township manager. The bulk of the cost, about $275,000, will go toward improvements at Hilltop Park on Hilltop Road.

“The grant requires a 50% match, so Collier will cover the rest of the cost,” he said.

Thauvette said the township officials are excited to finally have the means to install a digital sign, which will provide a way to communicate with residents about important updates and events. The manager said officials have been talking about the need for a sign for more than four years.

“We have a vibrant recreation department and community, so something we’ve really needed is the ability to change displays and get the word out,” Thauvette said.

The money also will be used to make upgrades at Kelly and Hilltop parks for handicap accessibility. Thauvette said the improvements likely will involve paving and building concrete pads that allow those with physical disabilities access the playgrounds without maneuvering through grass and mulch.

Rochelle Barry, the township’s parks and recreation director, said the township has the next three years to spend the grant money from the DCNR.

But Thauvette said he hopes the projects will be completed by late summer 2021. He said the township will be applying for additional grants for other projects. Showing the agency finished projects will improve the chances of getting those grants awarded, he said.

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