“I’m really excited to see so many applications this year from across the City,” said Dylan McDowell, Vice Chair of the Salem Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. “SPIF funding allows the City to support projects that really meet the needs of the local users, whether that is fitness and sports equipment, benches, or new artwork.” 

Each year, Neighborhood Associations across the City submit proposals for new park enhancements. The program annually awards up to $60,000 from the General Fund to be used over the next two years.  Projects require matching funds and need to align with the Comprehensive Park System Master Plan. 

Qualifying projects include: 

• Fairmount Park: Mutt Mitt Dispenser and Invasive Species Removal
• Richmond Park: Multi-generational Fitness Equipment
• Englewood Park: Invasive Plant Removal/Pollinator Garden
• McRae Park: Soccer Goals
• Sunnyslope Park: Pickleball Court Striping and GaGa Pit
• Secor Park: GaGa Pit
• Lansing Park: Sports Benches and Picnic Tables
• Pringle Pathway to Riverfront: Bench
• Fairview Park: Information Kiosk
• Edgewater Parkway: Park Sign, Garbage Receptacles, and Information Kiosk
• Nelson Park: Information Kiosk
• Northgate Park: Painted Art Fence Enhancement

SPIF proposals are reviewed by City staff for feasibility and to ensure they meet the master plan requirements. Members of the Salem Parks and Recreation Board, Salem Parks Foundation, and Salem Parks Planning and Operation staff then serve on the SPIF review committee to make the final selections. The neighborhood associations work with the City on delivering the project and are expected to contribute supplemental funding and in-kind support in many cases to make the projects a reality. 

For more information on the SPIF program to support Salem area parks, contact Jennifer Kellar, Parks and Recreation Division Manager.