FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 13, 2017
DEP AWARDS $500,000 TO SUWANNEE COUNTY
FOR PARK ACCESSIBILITY PROJECT
~Grant funding will help
improve accessibility at First Federal Park~
 Chuck Hatcher, assistant director of the Florida Park Service, presents $500,000 FRDAP check to Suwannee County Commissioners.
LIVE OAK, Fla.
– The Florida Department of Environmental Protection awarded Suwannee
County $500,000 for improvements to First Federal Park as one of 10 unique abilities projects funded through the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP). This year, DEP is awarding $3 million in grants to 10 communities around the state for projects that incorporate
adaptations or modifications to meet the needs of all potential visitors,
including those with physical or developmental disabilities.
"Enhancing
facilities and providing greater access for individuals with unique
abilities benefits everyone," said Chuck Hatcher, assistant director of
the Florida Park Service. "I am proud to present this grant award as we work
in partnership with local communities to provide more recreational
opportunities for Florida's residents and visitors."
Improvements at First Federal Park will include the development of a barrier-free playground with shade structures,
ADA-compliant picnic facilities, accessible fitness stations, a barrier-free
miracle league baseball field, a handicap parking area and security lighting.
"Our
philosophy has always been to 'touch lives in a positive way,'" said
Greg Scott, director of the Suwannee Parks and Recreation. "Our eyes
have been opened to a part of the population that has been left by the
wayside. These grants will help us serve those individuals with unique
needs that we have not be able to serve before now."
FRDAP is a competitive grant
program that provides state funds for the acquisition or development of lands
for public outdoor recreational use. Eligible applicants include municipal and
county governments and other authorized entities with the legal responsibility
to provide public outdoor recreation. In total, more than $10 million has been awarded
in FRDAP grant funding this fiscal year. For more information, visit the FRDAP webpage.
| 
