Children’s laughter is one of the sweetest sounds of summer. Neighborhood parks only provide a place for children and families to play and connect with nature, but they also improve neighboring property values, increase the quality of life for residents, help promote the health of families and youth, and contribute to Lake City’s environmental well-being.
Lake City’s Martha Law Park received a boost May 8 with a $2,500 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation’s Trees, Trails & Trash initiative. The funds will help enhance the park’s natural features, improve safety, and support capital upgrades for a more welcoming community space. For Grayson Boyington, the city’s deputy recreation director, the additional funds are an exciting addition for the park’s ongoing revitalization.
“This $2,500 grant from Duke Energy, awarded through the Trees, Trails & Trash initiative, will allow us to enhance the park’s natural features and invest in key capital improvements,” said Boyington. “Our goal is to create a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming environment for the community. We’re grateful for Duke Energy’s support and proud to take this important step toward restoring and improving this valued neighborhood space.”
Mindy Taylor, director of government and community relations for Duke Energy, presented the check to city representatives at Martha Law Park Thursday, May 8. The Martha Law Neighborhood Park Revitalization funds will be used toward improving the area for residents.
“We look at our grants as an investment in the communities we serve,” said Taylor, “For the month of April, the Duke Energy Foundation had a focus on ‘trees, trails, and trash,’ and our grants and volunteer opportunities lined up to allow us to present this check for $2,500 to Lake City to help beautify Martha Law Park.”
Mayor Yamekia Robinson expressed her thanks on behalf of the city for the grant for “this vital grant supporting the revitalization of Martha Law Park.”
“Our parks are the heart of our community to relax, have fun, and connect with others,” said Mayor Robinson. “This investment will allow us to ensure that it remains a cherished place for families and individuals of all ages. Thank you, Duke Energy, for recognizing the value of our parks!"
The funds will be used to clean up existing facilities at the park and help supply the mulch, gravel, and other equipment needed to maintain a safe and inviting space for Lake City’s community. Future plans include efforts to create a walking trail in the space, according to Lisa Jones, grants writer for the city.
“This Duke Energy grant will help continue the revitalization begun through the SC Forestry Commission Trees4SC program that provided trees for the park earlier this year, and with our other grant partners, Green Infrastructure Center and Moore Farms Botanical Gardens.”