Jim Thorpe Borough is hoping to land up to $500,000 in additional grant money to support the third phase of its upcoming multimillion-dollar Memorial Park improvement project.

Borough Manager Maureen Sterner said last week that the government entity will use $250,000 it already received in state funds to put toward a match for a Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources grant application.

“We also plan on applying for a Local Share Account grant for the other $250,000 in matching funds so there is the potential that no borough money would be used for the match,” Sterner said. “If we would get the full $500,000 from the DCNR grant, that would give us $1 million and the project is estimated to cost $1,012,145.”

Phase three of the Memorial Park project includes construction of two basketball courts, fencing, and outdoor lighting upgrades. Americans with Disabilities Act adjustable basketball hoops will be installed as well, to allow children and others to enjoy the new courts.

“Our basketball courts are one of the most actively used items in the park,” Sterner said when the borough was awarded the earlier grant. “These funds will assist us to continue with our phased project and allow us to make Memorial Park even more accessible for all ages and abilities. Our recreation engineers, Barry Isett and Associates, have exceeded our expectations with their grant writing assistance and park planning.”

The first phase of the Memorial Park project is slated to construct a playground and fitness area designed for 2- to 5-year-olds. A second phase will see the construction of a playground catering to 5- to 12-year-olds.

Borough Manager Maureen Sterner said the projects would likely be bid soon with a spring construction start targeted.

“Phase I focuses on revitalizing vandalized spaces, while Phase II goes a step further by establishing a dedicated play site and a sensory garden,” borough staff wrote in a grant application for the project. “This approach not only serves older age groups but also addresses the needs of underserved ADA demographics, fostering diverse and inclusive recreational opportunities.”

The funding for Phase 1, totaling $287,000, came from various sources, including the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Department of Community and Economic Development. Phase 2 has secured $171,000 through a state DCNR recreation grant.

Funds will cover site preparation, including the removal of existing play structures, construction of the playground and sensory garden, water supply line installation, lighting, utilities, and associated professional fees. The Phase II playground will be strategically located on the western side of the park, adjacent to the fitness area and south of the Phase I playground.

“The design includes a pour-in-place rubber safety surface, concrete curbing, and ADA flexible play equipment tailored for 5 to 12-year-olds,” the grant application states.

A significant feature of the proposed project is the inclusion of a sensory garden, positioned between the 5- to 12-year playground and the 2- to 5-year playground. “This not only provides an additional ADA play opportunity but also offers environmental benefits, creating visual appeal that seamlessly connects both play sites while maintaining age-specific distinctions,” according to the grant application. “Sensory gardens, known for their therapeutic benefits, stimulate the senses and contribute to emotional regulation and sensory development.”

The project also encompasses plans for lighting, starting near the Borough Hall and incorporating electrical outlets accessible for the borough’s annual holiday tree display in the park.