State Rep. Ed Henry, left, of Hartselle presents a $10,000 General Fund Grant to Morgan County District 4 Commissioner Greg Abercrombie. The money will be used to help rebuilt the ball fields and concession stand at Brindley Mountain Park. | Clif Knight

Brindley Mountain Park has moved a step closer to having new ball fields and a concession stand thanks to a $10,000 State General Fund Grant, which was obtained through the efforts of State Rep. Ed Henry, R-Hartselle.

Henry presented the grant to Morgan County District 4 Commissioner Greg Abercrombie on Sept. 21.

Abercrombie said the money will be used to build a replacement concession stand near the center of the 23-acre park. It will be easily accessible to players and fans at two lighted ball fields and a practice field.  Plans for the recreational facility call for all of the fields to be rebuilt and re-lighted as funds become available.

“We have a commitment for a $40,000 matching grant from the Farm Service Agency,” Abercrombie pointed out, “but this money is limited to infrastructure improvements such as drainage and grass for the playing fields. We also have applied for a $50,000 grant through the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA).”

Abercrombie launched the initiative to rebuild the facility after the property was deeded to the Morgan County Commission by a community organization earlier this year.

“This project is vital to the communities of Union Hill, Ryan and Morgan City,” said Henry, “because it will provide children of a safe, attractive place to come and enjoy participating in their favorite sports. “I m happy I was able to help and be a small part of its success.”