Huntingburg Grant Application Requests Playground Renovation Funding

Jessica Condra, Project Administrator with the Indiana 15 Regional Planning Commission, provided comments in a public hearing regarding Huntingburg’s application for grant funding through the Land and Conservation Fund. Condra has been assisting the City with grant applications for a much-needed playground renovation. The project would be located at the playground directly north of the League Stadium entrance.

 Huntingburg is requesting a grant of $674,102.24 with a local match of $674,102.25. The existing play area has uneven surfaces, which are a barrier for accessibility, and has aging equipment in poor condition. In addition, none of the existing equipment is ADA accessible. In the City’s 2023-2027 Parks and Recreation Master Plan, it was recommended that this playground should include accessibility routes and compliance with ADA standards. With that in mind, Condra explained, “This revitalization project will see the removal of the existing playground and installation of new equipment that is accessible for individuals of all abilities.” 

 The deadline for the submission to the Indiana DNR is August 1. After reviewing applications, the State will prepare a list of projects to submit for federal review. If Huntingburg’s project is selected for review, the Indiana 15 will work with the State to finalize required documentation and environmental review. The end of the submission process is estimated to be the end of 2026. The federal review process can take as long as 9 months to be completed. If awarded, the City could receive a grant agreement by Fall of 2027, with construction following. 

A preliminary engineering review began in May, and the Indiana 15 has been in contact with multiple state and federal agencies throughout the process. The location is not in a flood plain, but is adjacent to one. Condra read the DNR Early Coordination Environmental Review Report, which said the Indiana Department of Natural Resources had reviewed the project. They made comments and recommendations, some of which could be required for a permit. 

Condra noted that the City has successfully utilized these funds before. The same kind of grant was used to fund the Northside Park construction. She said that approximately 30% of the City’s match on that project came from the labor of City employees, which is a strategy that can be used to reduce the financial burden. A similar “in kind” match is anticipated for this project as well.