Stewart Park in Walnut Ridge receives $150,000 grant

Stewart Park in Walnut Ridge is about to get major facility upgrades that will include a disc golf park. Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism’s outdoor activities recreation grants approved a 50/50 match grant of $146,281 for a project that will be about $300,000 total.

A timetable for work to begin on the various projects covered by the grant was not released.

“It’s with special thanks to Gov. Asa Hutchinson and Director Stacy Hurst for believing in the revitalization efforts of Walnut Ridge,” Mayor Charles Snapp said. “I must say, I’m humbled by the award and I’m proud for the residents of Walnut Ridge and Lawrence County. I look forward to the support of all department heads, committee members and council members in an effort to make Walnut Ridge Stewart Park all it can be.”

The money will be used to improve existing facilities such as the fencing around the baseball fields and walking trail, repair existing pavilions, improve the playgrounds and swimming pool and install an entrance sign. A disc golf course will be built inside the park.

“Congratulations,” Gov. Hutchinson said in a letter addressed to the city. “The Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism will contact you in the near future to explain our procedure for the awards. Best wishes for much success with your project.”

Stewart Park is the primary recreation facility in Walnut Ridge, the county seat in Lawrence County.