Butler city council deserves congratulations for what it plans for the next two years of state Community Block Grants.

At its July 9 meeting, council decided to use this year’s estimated $240,000 in grants to improve the amenities at Memorial Park.

This is not a frivolous use of the money. Studies have shown well-maintained parks are an asset to the community.

Obviously, parks promote health by boosting physical activity, which reduces obesity and the risk of associated diseases, such as diabetes. But it’s also been shown that spending time in green spaces can improve mental health by reducing anxiety and depression.

A park can also reduce the volume of rainwater runoff and the effects of heat waves. Studies also show parks can cut down on urban blight, such as noise and light pollution.

So, council’s decision to spend the block grant on Memorial Park is a highly-efficient and cost-effective way to improve the lives of city residents.

Then, council decided that next year’s block grant — estimated to be between $225,000 to $235,000 — will be used to supplement the city’s paving fund.

Councilman Dan Herr said paving efforts should be on streets the city would normally overlook. Mayor Bob Dandoy said paving should take place in economically challenged neighborhoods.

Again, this plan would seem to benefit the most people for the least amount of expenditure.

The Urban Institute estimates infrastructure improvements, such as better-paved streets, can boost property values and provide stimulation to neighborhood economies. Meanwhile, aging infrastructure, such as potholed streets, creates safety hazards and can lower real estate values.

Council should be commended for realizing park and street improvements will improve the quality of life for the residents of Butler.

— EKF