Collier officials plan to use a state grant to help fund multiple upgrades to township parks.
Projects include new playground equipment and rubber play surfacing for Hilltop and Kelly parks, as well as a new LED sign to help communicate events and programs at Collier Park.
Overall upgrades are projected to cost about $400,000 with half of it covered by a $200,000 grant from the state Department of Conservation & Natural Resources.
Township manager Kyle Thauvette said the rest of the expenses will be covered by township funds as well as donations from the Friends of Collier Parks and Recreation.
He said the playgrounds at Hilltop and Kelly parks are safe to use, and the upgrades would make them more handicapped accessible. Most of the upgrades are still in the design phase.
“Both the playgrounds and equipment are nearing the end of their useful lifespan,” Thauvette said. “We want to continue to provide our residents with the best playground equipment and best amenities as we can. It’s time to make those upgrades.”
Other recreational improvements being planned include resurfacing the tennis courts and installing two new pickleball courts at Webb Park, and a new color LED sign at the community center.
Commission vice president Daniel Styche said the proposed upgrades and their funding are examples of “what is possible when residents and the township work together.”
Township parks are open, but with some restrictions due to the pandemic. Park users are encouraged to social distance when possible.
“We are looking forward to our residents being able to come back utilize and enjoy our many parks and trails,” Styche said.
Other park business
The township continues its search for a new parks and recreation director.
Former director Rochelle Barry left Collier in November for another job in another town.
“Our search for the new parks and recreation director is going well,” Styche said. “We have received applications from several individuals, including applicants residing in states such as Florida and Indiana.”
Candidates are expected to be interviewed within the coming weeks.
The goal is to hire the new person sometime in February.
