THOMASVILLE, Ga. (WCTV) - Thomasville is set to receive multiple grants for its park renovations, along with a grant for a local nonprofit.

Theapeutic horseback riding center Hands & Hearts for Horses is receiving a $50,000 grant in cash and in Kubota equipment to support their organization, according to a press release from Kubota Tractor Corporation.

The horseback riding center was named one of 10 recipients, the press release wrote.

Joy Gay, regional equipment manager at Linder Turf & Tractor, said they were excited to bring the grant to Thomasville.

“This program is genuinely about community building, and the team at Linder Turf & Tractor is excited to bring this grant to our own hometown here in Thomasville,” Gay said.

With the grant and support from the local Kubota dealer, Linder Turf & Tractor, the corporation says Hands & Hearts for Horses plans to “continue overall grounds maintenance and enhance a wooded sensory trail, ensuring safe, smooth, hazard-free surfaces for medically fragile riders and horses.”

More good news:

Two parks in Thomasville are also set to receive grants for renovation purposes.

Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is providing a $500,000 grant for renovations at Balfour Park, according to a press release from the City of Thomasville. The park is expected to be updated with a central pavilion, new restrooms, playground equipment, a water feature and parking improvements, per city officials.

The city was also awarded $3 million in funds for Phase 2 renovations at Paradise Park. The grant was provided through a Conserve Georgia Grant from the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program (GOSP), the press release wrote.

“Upgrades include restoration of the old-growth longleaf pine forest, including environmental education opportunities, new nature-based play areas, and accessible restroom facilities,” the city said.

The grants were made possible through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Pam Schalk, a grant administrator at DNR, said the city received the largest award among local governments.

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