During their 3 p.m. Tuesday regular session at the administration building, Henry County officials will decide whether to contribute finances to Ridgeway’s ongoing park project.
Ridgeway officials formally requested financial aid from Henry County supervisors in a March 6 letter. The request is for $100,000. Ridgeway officials have already earmarked $110,000 toward the project.
Ridgeway officials are also applying for a $25,000 Pick Up the Pace grant. The Pick Up the Pace Grant is one of several grant programs offered by the Harvest Foundation.
[Disclosure: The Harvest Foundation is one of our donors, but donors have no say in news decisions; see our policy.]
The park is currently planned for 383 Morehead Ave. and will include versatile amenities that serve a number of uses.
“This project will include the development of a basketball court that can also be configured into three pickleball courts, significantly enhancing the recreational opportunities available to residents of the Ridgeway District and Henry County as a whole,” reads a description from Ridgeway’s letter.
The letter details limited recreational opportunities in the town.
“Currently, our community has limited options for structured outdoor activities,” reads part of the letter. “Pickleball, in particular, has seen a surge in popularity across all age groups, making this multi-use facility a valuable and inclusive addition to our town.”
Henry County Supervisors will also consider approving a proclamation making the month of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Communities across the country recognize April as the month to raise awareness about child abuse alongside major advocacy groups like CASA.
“CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), a nationally recognized organization that empowers volunteers to advocate for children who are involved in court proceedings due to abuse or neglect, uses this time to educate the public about the importance of child advocacy, promote programs that support at-risk youth, and create a culture of awareness and responsibility when it comes to preventing child abuse,” reads information provided by the county.
CASA is an advocacy group dedicated to helping children going through court proceedings for cases stemming from abuse or neglect. The organization works to ensure kids are given a voice and treated fairly in court.
Kerry Walker, executive director of CASA Martinsville-Henry County, will ask county officials to consider the resolution.
