County staff eyes state grant to make fairgrounds shelter ADA-compliant; application due Aug. 15

County staff told the Marion County Quorum Court they are evaluating an application to the Arkansas Community Assistance Grant to improve the fairgrounds community building that serves as the county’s primary evacuation shelter.

Melissa, speaking for county staff, said the grant opens July 1 and the application is due Aug. 15. “It is available for up to $1.5 million on each application,” she said, adding that the grant requires a 20% match. She emphasized staff will not necessarily request the program maximum and that cost estimates are not yet complete.

Melissa described specific needs at the fairgrounds building that a grant could address: replacing a wooden ramp with an ADA-compliant concrete ramp, adding accessible parking spaces, improving the gravel exterior access to a paved surface, and treating a slippery downstairs floor to improve safety during evacuations. She said the county would work with an architect (the same firm assisting on the courthouse project) and would return with estimates and a resolution if the county decides to apply.

A member suggested pairing ramp and parking work together for ADA compliance; another member offered to cover paving costs from the road department and to allocate sales tax road funds to help cover the county’s 20% match if needed. County staff indicated they hope to submit applications in successive years to address more projects as funds permit.

Because the grant deadline is Aug. 15, Melissa asked the budget committee for guidance on what level of match the county would be comfortable providing. Staff will bring cost estimates and a proposed resolution back to the committee next month if they proceed.