Boys & Girls Club earns LCRA grant

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Texas soon will seal and improve a much-used basketball court in Lampasas, thanks to a $21,568 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority and the city of Lampasas.

The community grant, along with $5,392 in matching funds, will pay to restore the court’s deteriorated surface, creating a safer and more durable play area for sports, recreation and afterschool activities. In addition to extending the court’s lifespan, the renovations will improve the court’s condition enough that it can host additional games and tournaments, which will bring more visitors to Lampasas.

“This grant is especially meaningful for a community life Lampasas, where outdoor recreational options can be limited,” said Tiana Quick, chief executive officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Texas.

The basketball court is directly behind the school campus and near a new skate park, the Hanna Springs Swimming Pool, Lampasas Community Gardens and Campbell Park. The Boys & Girls Club leases the basketball court from the Lampasas Independent School District.

LCRA General Manager Phil Wilson said providing safe recreational opportunities for young people is important to encourage both physical activity and an increased sense of community.

“You learn a lot more than the game of basketball when you’re out on the court,” Wilson said. “You learn about the importance of teamwork and hard work. You also meet new people and establish new relationships that can lat long after the game is over. LCRA is honored to support the Boys & Girls Club in its work to make the court safer.”

The grant is one of 41 recently awarded through LCRA Community Grants. These grants are awarded twice a year as part of LCRA’s effort to give back to communities in its wholesale electric, water and transmission service areas. Applications for the next round of grants will be accepted in January.