RATHDRUM - Rathdrum is in line to receive a $117,927 grant that would help bring the city's first park since 1984 to reality.

The city is seeking final approval for the grant through the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation to add a splash pad, two softball fields, playground equipment and walkways at the 12-acre Majestic Park.

The park is east of Meyer Road next to the water tower.

"The park will help us preserve open space on the Rathdrum Prairie before it's developed," said Lance Bridges, the city's parks and recreation director. "This will help future generations."

The grant is pending approval of an environmental assessment that is open to public comment through Jan. 2. If the grant is approved as expected, it will likely be awarded in early 2012.

"It's been approved by (the state) and is in the feds' hands now," Bridges said.

The improvements paid for with the grant would be the second phase of the park. It will be built in four phases.

"Our goal is to get this (second) phase completed by Aug. 1," said Bridges, adding that the park would be able for use afterward.

Phase 1 - the irrigation and grass - are complete.

The city's last park to be built was Stub Myer in 1984. Bridges said Majestic Park will allow the city to improve the ratio of parkland vs. residents.

Applying for the grant has been a year and a half process.

The environmental assessment, which describes different alternatives to the project and gives information concerning impacts to the community, is at www.rathdrum.org. Email comments to Bridges by Jan. 2. For more information, call Bridges at 687-2399.

Comments sought

n The environmental assessment of Rathdrum's Majestic Park can be viewed at www.rathdrum.org. Public comments should be sent to Rathdrum Parks and Recreation Director Lance Bridges at lance@rathdrum.org by Jan. 2. For more information, call Bridges at 687-2399.