Mentor leaders continue their efforts to add more amenities that are available to all members of the community.
The city council passed a resolution on June 1 authorizing Natureworks to submit a grant application to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for outdoor exercise equipment in Civic Center Park.
The equipment would be installed between the pickleball courts and the swimming pool. The location was chosen because many Mentor seniors use these facilities and are the target audience for the new equipment, officials said.
The total cost is estimated at $ 48,943. The grant would cover 75 percent, or $ 36,707.
The city’s stake would be about $ 2,200 as a resident offered to pay $ 10,000 for the project.
The equipment would be installed between the pickleball courts and the swimming pool in Civic Center Park.
“We have been very lucky with these grants in the past,” said City Manager Ken Filipiak. “What we propose are gentle outdoor training equipment. Right now we’re looking at about nine pieces that would form a circle that mostly focuses on seniors using this area. “
He noted the generosity of the resident donor.
“We like to see that,” he said.
The grant project starts on January 1st. If approved, the installation could begin shortly thereafter.
“The city is pleased that we can offer seniors additional outdoor exercise options,” said Kenn Kaminski, Director of Parks & Recreation. “The placement in Civic Center Park will add value to the area, and the older generation using the pickleball courts could easily use the new equipment. I hope we can get the grant and do this for the community. “
The city also added an all-inclusive playground in Civic Center Park last year with a $ 90,000 grant from Natureworks. The total cost was $ 140,000.
The playground is located next to the pool at the main entrance to the park. The park is located near the ice arena at 8600 Munson Road.
