Controlling board OKs 5 area projects

October 25, 2011 at 12:00a.m.

COLUMBUS

The state Controlling Board has signed off on more than $1.2 million for parks improvements, including five projects in Columbiana and Trumbull counties.

The funding is being awarded by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources through its NatureWorks Program, which was created by lawmakers about 17 years ago, with funding doled out to counties on a per capita basis.

Local governments submitted 87 applications requesting more than $2.1 million for various projects, and ODNR selected 54 for funding in this year’s round.

In Columbiana County, $12,536 will be used to renovate tennis courts at Firestone Park in Columbiana, while $7,100 will go toward pool renovations in Lisbon. Additionally, $6,422 will be used to develop a pavilion at New Waterford’s Field of Dreams, and $6,412 will be used to upgrade electric service at the East Palestine city park pool.

In Trumbull County, $54,999 will be used for a playground and restroom project at Braceville Township Park.

In other business, the Controlling Board approved a contract with Tri County Tower Services Inc. in Youngstown to install radio-communication towers at two sites in Ross County and one in Coshocton County at a cost of nearly $1.4 million.

Lawmakers also approved $5,000 for a vehicle building at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Salem District Office.