August 27, 2021 - The Mayor and City Council along with representatives of Tyson Foods will conduct a project ground breaking Saturday, August 28, 2021 at 10am. This will begin the construction phase of a needed rehabilitation project seeking funding for almost ten years.
In 2012, the City initiated a rehabilitation plan seeking funding through DETCOG and dedicating $75,000 of local funds for grant match. While that initial, and subsequent applications were denied by DETCOG, the project finally received funding approval on its second submittal to Texas Parks and Wildlife last year.
The grant application was for $150,000 of grant funds and required equal amount of local funds, half of which could not be governmental funds. The City had maintained in reserve the initial $75,000 for local resources toward this project and relied on pledges to raise the other $75,000 needed. Fortunately, early last year, Tyson Foods inquired as to partnership opportunity and project needs of the City. With the encouragement of local Tyson leadership, Tyson’s Charitable Giving Committee approved the City’s application for the remaining $75,000 in required local, non-governmental funds. This assistance guaranteed the TP&W grant award and ensured the construction activity would proceed.
“We’re proud to be a part of this community and investing in Perry Sampson Park is just one way we give back,” said Billy Clark II, plant manager, Tyson Foods. “Tyson has had a long tradition of investing in projects that raise the quality of life for our team members and neighbors and this grant is another example of those efforts.”
The project, as approved and funded, will encompass rehab of the existing basketball courts by installing a lighted pavilion and renewed surface; installation of a modern playground system and equipment with safety surfacing; renovation of the existing pavilion; handicap accessible sidewalks throughout for all park features and upgraded electrical, landscaping, tables, benches and other amenities. Current construction approved by the City is projected at $321,000 and with some minor sitework already underway by City personnel, construction on larger components is expected within twelve weeks upon delivery of the new steel structure and playground equipment. Completion of all construction is anticipated by Spring 2022.
“We all look forward to the completion of this renovation project to expand the recreational options and facilities within the City,” stated Mayor David Chadwick. He continued, “We are extremely proud to have project partners like Tyson to make desires for improvements a reality.”
