Beverly Gets Federal Grant To Overhaul Park

BEVERLY, MA -- Masschusetts Gov. Charlie Baker said Wednesday that Beverly is one of seven Massachusetts communities to receive grants under the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Program. Beverly will receive $300,000 to make improvements at Pete's Park. The project includes the construction and installation of an overlook space, an accessible play structure and swing set area, basketball court, repaired and resurfaced tennis court and seating area, and a nature-inspired play space and outdoor classroom.

"Support from the Land and Water Conservation Fund is an important tool for the Commonwealth to continue building upon a legacy of land protection and park improvement," Baker said in a statement. "Our Administration is pleased to work with Communities across Massachusetts to improve their communities by investing in their parks and open spaces."

Congress created the program in 1965. It is funded through off-shore oil leases and provides grants to states, as well as the federal government, for projects that protect open spaces, construct or renovate parks, and build trails.

Massachusetts maintains eligibility for the program by completing a Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan every five years. The projects selected for funding must implement the findings of the plan. All applicants must have an up-to-date Open Space and Recreation Plan to be eligible for funding.

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Photo by Beverly Recreation Department.

Dave Copeland can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).