Public Information Office 210 S. McDonald Street Suite 626 McKinney, Texas 75069 www.collincountytx.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 2, 2007

Parks and Open Space grant opportunities available in Collin County

(McKinney, TX) - Non-profit organizations and municipalities now have the opportunity to apply for a share of $2.2 million in Parks & Open Space funds. As a result of the 2003 Collin County Bond Program, there is funding available for projects including, but not limited to, acquisition and improvement of open spaces, parks, and recreational facilities.

Collin County will begin mailing application packets on Monday to all communities and previous applicants. Applications are available by contacting the Collin County Special Projects Department, located at 825 North McDonald Street in McKinney, by calling 972-548-3744 or by visiting the Collin County website at www.collincountytx.gov.

The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, July 9th, 2007. The Parks Foundation Advisory Board will conduct a review process between July and September and funding recommendations will be submitted to the Collin County Commissioners Court in October, 2007.

Collin County communities needing assistance to embark on a parks and open space program can obtain the Collin County Parks & Open Space Strategic Plan by contacting the Special Projects Department. The Strategic Plan includes a guidebook that can assist communities in the preparation of their own Parks and Open Space Plan.

Anyone with questions may email Teresa Nelson at tnelson@collincountytexas.gov or visit the Collin County website at www.collincountytx.gov.

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