The City of Hardy has begun work to restore Loberg Park, starting with the removal of damaged playground equipment. Mayor Ethan Barnes confirmed that city public works crews recently started the initial clearing process after receiving permission to proceed from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management.
The effort is partially funded by a $100,000 Fun Park Grant awarded to the city by the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. This state grant, approved for expenditure by the City Council, will allow Hardy to purchase new playground equipment and bring needed improvements to the park. According to the mayor, utilizing the grant funding will save local, state, and federal taxpayers additional expenses.
FEMA disaster assistance will also contribute to the park's rebuilding, though specific details about the federal funding's timeline were not disclosed. Hardy officials aim to complete the playground restoration by the end of the year.
This project represents a collaborative effort between local, state, and federal agencies to rehabilitate a key community space for residents and families in the area.