MIDDLESEX TWP — Township supervisors approved applications for two grants Wednesday afternoon at their work session.

If secured, the grants would go toward revitalizing the township's playground and sports field area.

The township has applied for a Butler County Parks Renovation Grant, according to township manager Adam Hartwig.

Hartwig said this is a $10,000 dual-funded award: $7,500 is funded by the county and $2,500 is funded by Middlesex.

“We applied for that to use as a cash match for a DCNR grant,” Hartwig said.

Supervisors also approved a resolution to apply for a separate Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Park Rehabilitation Grant Wednesday afternoon, valued between $250,000 and $300,000.

This grant would be slated for rehabilitating the township park, including replacing the current playground and upgrading the fall surface to bring the location up to code and Americans with Disabilities Act specifications.

“It would require 50% in cash or in-kind match,” Hartwig said.

Hartwig said he's working with township engineer Jeff Mikesic to put together updated estimates for the renovations.

Mike Spreng, supervisor chairman, asked if the playground equipment could be donated or sold after it's been replaced. Spreng said the playground is in good enough shape to be dismantled and used by someone else.

“I just hate to see it get destroyed,” Spreng said. “I think it can be taken apart.”

Mike Hnath, township solicitor, said the supervisors could vote to sell it or declare it to be of no value.

The township has been discussing updating the township park for several years.

If the township wins the DCNR grant, Hartwig said he'd like to see the former township baseball field removed in order to extend the football field.

“So that it can be used for soccer, lacrosse and football,” Hartwig said.

Hnath noted the township is continuing to grow. Incoming housing developments are bringing families, many of whom would use the outdoor sports fields and playground.

“There's going to be more houses coming and more kids,” Hnath said.

Hnath added that renovating the park could lay groundwork for future trail revitalization and connectivity in the township.

Supervisor Robert Brash was absent during the proceedings.