Weirton playground could see improvements through CDBG funds
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WEIRTON -- One of Weirton's neighborhood playgrounds could be in line for some improvements.
Weirton Parks Director Coty Shingle, during last week's meeting of the Weirton Board of Parks and Recreation, explained he had been approached by representatives of Urban Design Ventures, a consultant under contract with the City of Weirton to assist in programming the city's federal Community Development Block Grant funding.
"There was a buildup of about $35,000," Shingle said. "That money is getting old and needs to be spent."
CDBG funds are dollars administered through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, with the focus on projects to benefit low- to moderate-income areas of communities.
Shingle said he would like to use the funds on an improvement project for the playground on Bennett Drive.
"It's been last on the list every time," he said, referring to previous discussions for improvements to the city's recreational facilities.
Shingle also said surveys have shown the neighborhood to be among the fastest growing for populations of youth aged 5 to 12 years.
Located at the intersection of Bennett Drive and St. Ann Way in the Weircrest area of Weirton, the playground features a small shelter with one picnic table, a swing set with two regular swings and two infant swings, a basketball court, and a few benches.
Shingle said he will work with Urban Design Ventures representatives and the city's Planning and Development Department to come up with ideas for projects.
"That will be a significant upgrade," Shingle said.
The Weirton Park Board oversees the operation and maintenance of 12 parks and playgrounds throughout the city, as well as the Millsop Community Center, the Edwin J. Bowman Baseball Field and the Panhandle Recreational Trail.