Rendering of the Lucy the Elephant playground under construction at the Jerome Avenue fields, reflects Margate’s commitment to recreation.
By NANETTE LoBIONDO GALLOWAY
MARGATE – The city is the second Downbeach community to receive a $50,000 Local Recreation Improvement Grant from the State of New Jersey. Ventnor and Margate were two of 162 New Jersey municipalities to receive $10 million in funding to improve community parks and recreation centers. Ventnor announced its award last week.
“A big part of what makes a community healthy and vibrant is giving residents the opportunity to take a walk, play a game and participate in sports and other activities with friends and neighbors in a safe and accessible place,” Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver said in a grant announcement.
According to City Administrator Richard Deaney, grant consultant Jim Rutala applied for the grant.
Deaney said the funding would go toward the city’s ongoing effort to improve the recreation fields at the Sigmund Rimm athletic complex, playgrounds and to resurface a “not well used” track at the complex.
Jacqueline Suarez of the Division of Local Government Services said the funding would fill the need to have outdoor spaces that help alleviate “significant stress and anxiety brought on by the pandemic.”
Applications were reviewed based on criteria including impact on the community, need for the project, effect on taxpayers, sustainability, and the applicant’s commitment to recreation. The grant includes a local match.
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