Leesburg residents will soon have more recreational opportunities. The town received a $50,000 grant, which it will match, to expand the Leesburg Town Park.

Mayor Ed Mackey said the town will develop two adjacent acres recently purchased by the town.

“I talked to the engineer today,” Mackey said last week. “We hope to get the improvements started this year. I’ll know more next week.”

“The availability of additional recreational activities can improve the health and quality of life for residents,” said Gov. Bob Riley said. “I am pleased to make this funding available for the expansion of outdoor recreational facilities in Leesburg.”

The expansion will add a playground, two picnic pavilions and park benches to the site, which is located on Lokey Street near the town fire department. The expansion will provide playground and picnic facilities within walking distance for most residents. Town officials say the expansion will create more space for the Leesburg Day celebration held at the park every September.

“This is just for kids, families, birthday parties. They can use the pavilion. We’ve got walking tracks. There will be a safe place to walk right next to the police station,” Mackey said.

The mayor said the town gave about $130,000 to buy the land adjacent to the park.

Future plans call for a paved walking trail and restrooms to be constructed at the park.

Riley awarded the grant from funds made available to the state through the U.S. Department of Interior’s Land and Water Conservation Fund. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs will administer the award