JEDCO Seeks to Continue Momentum of Parks and Recreation Matching Grant Program

JACKSONVILLE, Texas (September 4, 2024) – The Jacksonville Economic Development Corporation (JEDCO) is proud to announce the successful rollout of the Parks and Recreation Matching Grant Program, which was established to enhance public parks and recreation facilities throughout Jacksonville. Funded with $500,000 from the Community Development Fund in the FY2024 budget, the program's primary purpose is to promote and incentivize private donations for projects that enhance public parks and public facilities, and to provide recreation facilities and lands for general public use by the citizens of Jacksonville, Texas.

We are immensely proud of the strides we have made through the Parks and Recreation Matching Grant Program, which exemplifies our commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Jacksonville," said Shane Pace, President of JEDCO. "These projects not only improve our community's public spaces but also foster a spirit of collaboration among local organizations. As we continue to invest in our parks and recreational facilities, we are encouraged by the positive impact these initiatives have on our residents. Our goal is to keep the momentum going, creating more opportunities for healthy, vibrant community interactions in the years to come.

Through the program, JEDCO has already awarded $170,000 in FY2024, leveraging a total investment of over $500,000 from community partners. Notable projects funded include:

Batting Cages – Approved on November 16, 2023, this $108,000 project submitted by the Jacksonville Baseball and Softball Association successfully constructed new batting cages at the City’s Baseball Complex. The organization contributed $73,746 in matching funds and received a grant of $36,873.

Cherokee Ranch Pickleball Courts – Approved on December 11, 2023, this project converted two existing tennis courts into six pickleball courts for a total cost of $85,000. In addition to resurfacing, the project included new netting and striping, new lighting, and renovations to the existing restrooms. The Cherokee Ranch Golf Association committed $42,500 in matching funds and requested an equal matching grant.

Lincoln Park – Approved on January 18, 2024, this partnership with the Fred Douglass Community Development Corporation (FDCDC) and the City of Jacksonville includes the construction of a 0.41-mile walking trail, with a total estimated cost of $300,000, of which JEDCO committed $65,000.

Buckner Park – Currently in progress, this project was approved on May 16, 2024, to enhance fitness equipment in Buckner Park, with a matching grant request of $25,000 from the Jacksonville Kiwanis Club.

As part of its ongoing commitment to improving Jacksonville’s parks and recreation landscape, JEDCO is excited to carry forward this successful initiative into FY2025 with an additional $500,000 appropriated in the upcoming budget.

How to Apply for the Parks and Recreation Matching Grant Program

If you are an organization, non-profit, or community member interested in enhancing Jacksonville’s parks and recreation facilities, JEDCO encourages you to apply for the Parks and Recreation Matching Grant Program. Simply visit www.jacksonvilletxedc.com/matching-grant-program/ to download the application, then follow the submission instructions provided.

About JEDCO

The Jacksonville Economic Development Corporation (JEDCO) was established in 1995 by the voters of Jacksonville. JEDCO is a Type B corporation governed by State Law and operates on revenue from a 1⁄2 cent sales tax. JEDCO is led by a seven-member board of directors appointed by the Jacksonville City Council.