Fremont Recreation Center awarded $265,000 USDA facilities grant for improvements

FREMONT ― The Fremont Recreation Department has been awarded a $265,000 Department of Agriculture grant to be used for improvements to the city recreation center.

“Glad to help return $265,000 in taxpayer dollars to the people of Fremont and Sandusky County through this United States Department of Agriculture Communities Facilitates Award,” said Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Toledo. “The nearly 16,000 Northwest Ohioans who use the Fremont Community Recreation Center will see improved accessibility, and upgrades to the track, ice and weightlifting facilities. It’s great to see real federal investments in creating livable communities across our region."

More: Woodville didn't have enough lifeguards to open its pool in 2023. How does 2024 shape up?

The grant comes from the USDA Rural Development Program. Total cost of the project is projected at $415,699 with $150,699 in additional funding contributed by the city.

“These are dollars that are going to be put into the rec center parking lot,” Fremont Mayor Danny Sanchez said. “We are very grateful to receive this grant. We have been strategically planning for numerous projects throughout the city, not only for city streets but also for city facilities. This rec center parking lot is in disrepair. It comes down to rec center users having accessibility for the facilities. It’s a big deal, because that’s money the city doesn’t have to pay.”

External improvements will include resurfacing the entrance and parking lot, installing LED lights, adding an ADA area and improving storm water drainage and water quality. Remaining funds will help make improvements to the indoor walking track, weight room and ice rink.

The rec center was completed in 2000. In 2023, the 24-hour access facility was, had 15,728 member visits.

rlapointe@gannett.com

419-332-2674

This article originally appeared on Fremont News-Messenger: Fremont OH Recreation Center awarded $265,000 USDA facilities grant