Medford Awarded Grant For Harris Park Improvements

MEDFORD, MA – The Baker-Polito administration last week awarded more than $2 million in federal grants for seven park improvement projects funded by the National Park Service's Land and Water Conservation Fund. Included in the funding was $300,000 for Harris Park improvements in Medford.

The project will involve installing new play equipment, a rope climber, a water play area, a children's nature play area, swing alley and community garden and implementing site furnishings, plantings and accessible parking improvements.

"I am very pleased that the City of Medford received this grant for Harris Park," State Rep. Paul J. Donato, who represents Medford, said in a statement. "The renovations will make Harris Park an attractive recreational facility for our families."

Parks and open spaces in Massachusetts have received more than $100 million since the LWCF's inception in 1965. It is funded by off-shore oil leases and provides grants to states, as well as the federal government, for projects that protect open spaces, build trails and protect or renovate parks.

"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," Gov. Charlie 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."

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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