City of Thomasville awarded multiple grants for park renovations projects

THOMASVILLE, Ga. – September 3, 2025 – The City of Thomasville recently received multiple grant awards from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to assist with park renovation projects at Balfour Park and Paradise Park.

A $500,000 grant from the Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) will assist with Balfour Park renovations that are projected to provide citizens with a central pavilion, new restrooms, playground equipment, a water feature, and parking enhancements. The LWCF Program is a federal program authorized by Congress for the purpose of acquiring federal lands and assisting states and local governments with funds to acquire lands and develop and renovate outdoor recreation facilities.

The City was also awarded a $3 million Conserve Georgia Grant from the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program (GOSP) for Phase II renovations at Paradise Park. Upgrades include restoration of the old-growth longleaf pine forest including environmental education opportunities, new nature-based play areas, and accessible restroom facilities. The GOSP Program is Georgia’s first dedicated funding source for the conservation of priority lands, the stewardship of state parks and wildlife management areas, and the support of local parks and trails.

Grants Administrator Pam Schalk explained that DNR grant cycles are highly competitive, with 67 applications submitted statewide for these two grant programs. Out of the 12 projects selected for GOSP funding, the City was one of only five local governments or non-profits chosen, and the City received the largest award given to a local government. In total, $24.6 million in GOSP grants were awarded. Additionally, $7.5 million in LWCF grants was distributed to 19 cities and counties across Georgia.

“We are appreciative of the awarding of these funds from the DNR,” said Schalk. “It is agencies such as these that provide funding sources and grant opportunities that assist us with significantly enhancing the overall experience of our park visitors and the quality of life for our citizens.”

For more information about DNR grant programs, please visit www.gadnr.org/grants. For additional information or questions concerning the City of Thomasville’s grants, please contact Pam Schalk, Grants Administrator, at 229-227-4093.

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