8-11-10 —     Wayne County has been awarded a grant through the Land and Water

Conservation Fund that will mean a new addition to the park next year. An

$18,150 grant has been approved for the construction of a putt-putt golf

course at Memorial Park.

    "We were looking to provide another opportunity for our young people,"

said County Judge-Executive Greg Rankin, who was pleased with the recent

announcement of the grant approval. "This will give them something else to

do."

    This marks the second time the county has applied for funding for this

project. They were turned down last year, but this year the project was

approved. The funding also includes some money for work on an existing

shelter house at the park.

    It is a 50-50 matching grant, but the county will use in-kind labor to

provide a portion of that match, according to Rankin. He noted that the

project will likely begin in the spring.

    The local project was one of 17 recently approved, according to an

announcement from Governor Steve Beshear.

    A total of $637,381 was awarded statewide for projects that encompass

the development and maintenance of outdoor recreation areas and facilities.

    "Creating and maintaining recreational resources across our Commonwealth

enhances tourism opportunities and stirs economic development during these

especially difficult times," stated Beshear. "Providing quality recreational

spaces also allows Kentuckians to live healthier, more active lifestyles and

improves the overall quality of life of our communities."

    Administered by DLG, funds for this program are allocated to Kentucky by

the National Park Service, U.S. Department of Interior.