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By Josh Sweigart, Staff Writer Updated 9:47 PM Monday, February 1, 2010

HAMILTON — Park improvements and sidewalk paving were among $1.1 million in local projects Butler County commissioners approved Monday, Feb. 1.

Commissioners unanimously approved the expenditure of the county’s federal Community Development Block Grant allotment.

County Community Development Director Donna Everson said the projects will likely break ground in the summer.

Park improvements include new restrooms at Rentschler Forest Preserve in Fairfield Twp.

“The restroom facilities (there now) are kind of barbaric. They’re kind of nasty,” Everson said.

New playground equipment planned for Dudley Memorial Park on Yankee Road in Liberty Twp. will be accessible for children with disabilities.

“When you take a look at the number of students Lakota has that have disabilities, its very important we provide opportunities the youth of the community can enjoy,” said Liberty Twp. Trustee Christine Matacic.

The specific projects were chosen from a list of $3.3 million in requests, based on input from Everson, who said her main goal was getting money to areas that haven’t received many CDBG grants.

Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2175 or jsweigart@coxohio.com