The Union County Board of County Commissioners is happy to inform all residents that the County of Union has been awarded one-hundred percent of the active recreation and stewardship grants that it applied for back in February by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). Additionally, the County was awarded more in the supplemental grant category (for previous acquisitions) than normally received.
“Outdoor recreational areas and historic attractions are vital for our community’s health and well-being,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “They provide a sanctuary for revitalization, relaxation, and cherished moments with loved ones. We deeply appreciate the grants from NJDEP, which enable us to enhance our county parks and landmarks. These renovations will make them more inclusive and enjoyable for all visitors.”
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Below is a breakdown of the active recreation and stewardship grants:
Jake’s Law Grant: To develop and construct a completely inclusive playground
• This grant is a 75/25 match. Union County requested and received $915,000.00, with a County match of $312,500 for a playground at Warinanco Park.
Urban Parks Grant: To develop and construct a playground in an Adversely Stressed Overburdened Community in, or easily accessible to, an Urban Aid municipality
• This grant does not have a matching component. Union County requested and received $500,000.00 for a playground upgrade in Rahway River Park.
Local Park Development and Stewardship Projects Grant: To restore and protect natural resources and Historic Landscapes
• This grant is a 50/50 matching grant. Union County requested and received $239,900 for landscape restoration work at the Homestead Farmhouse at Oak Ridge Park
“We’re excited to announce that Union County has secured 100% of our NJDEP/Green Acres Program grants this year, including extra funding in supplemental grants,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chairman of the Union County Open Space Trust Fund. “Our sincere gratitude goes to all County residents who actively participated in the community outreach surveys and contributed to the initial planning of these projects. These grants signify trust in our initiatives and acknowledge the positive impact they have on the community, enhancing outdoor spaces for Union County residents.”
The total amount in grants awarded to the County of Union this round was $3,754,900. This includes $2.1 million in supplemental grants received from previous acquisitions.
For more information on the green acres grants project, visit www.ucnj.org/green-acres-grants/.