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City approves $123,000 Texas Parks and Wildlife grant for Northwest Park obstacle course
Summary
The council approved a reimbursable Texas Parks and Wildlife grant totaling $123,000 to fund signage and an obstacle course at Northwest Park; state reimbursement is expected at $98,400 and the city's cash contribution is projected at $10,000–$15,000 plus staff time.
The Bridgeport City Council approved an agreement to accept a combined Texas Parks and Wildlife Department grant of $123,000 to add signage and an obstacle-course feature at Northwest Park.
Chris Heasley, the city's parks and recreation director, said the project combines two previously awarded grants (2018 signage and 2020 park improvements) into a single reimbursable agreement. "The entire project's a $123,000. It's a reimbursable grant. So when we are completed with that grant, the state will then cut us a check back for $98,400," Heasley said. He estimated the city's unreimbursed cash cost at about $10,000 to $15,000 and projected roughly 150 hours of staff work and volunteer labor.
Councilmember Matt Van Hoose moved to approve the agreement (Project Bridgeport RT0200001) and authorize the mayor or city manager to sign related documents; Council president Preston seconded and the motion passed 3–0. Heasley said the work will open additional park areas and add a new feature that had been delayed by COVID-19 and changes in the state's grant process.
The grant is reimbursable, so the city will pay project costs up front and seek state reimbursement when the project is complete. Heasley said the park's kitchen and operations remain a "no-frills operation," and staff will maximize volunteer labor and in-kind support to reduce the city's cash obligation.
