Published: June 22, 2009 11:51 pm      

Ballfield project could use a little help from friends

NORTHERN CAMBRIA — Financial help from the state and donated labor are enabling one area recreation facility to undergo some significant improvements.

The South Ballfield Complex, in the southern end of Northern Cambria Borough, will provide new restrooms, changing rooms for the baseball and softball teams, and a concession stand.

“Our bathrooms were deplorable – for years we’ve been working for this,” Paul Serafin, a leader in the Northern Cambria Recreation program, said Friday.

Materials for the Betts Avenue complex will be purchased using a grant from the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund through the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, said Larry Custer, executive director of the Cambria County Redevelopment Authority.

Custer’s agency wrote the grant application and will administer the funding.

The state will supply funds for the materials and the community will provide a $10,000 match.

Serafin said recreation officials are looking for volunteers to help with construction. They hope to enlist the aid of borough employees and equipment for some of the work.

Bids totaling $41,000 were awarded by the redevelopment authority Thursday to three suppliers.

Lezzer Lumber of Curwensville will supply roofing and electrical supplies along with a door and windows for about $14,500. Oppy Construction Inc. of Johnstown will supply kitchen equipment and plumbing supplies totaling $16,500. Capital Construction of Windber will supply cement blocks for about $10,000.

Work on the project is expected to begin in the fall, Serafin said.