Fundraising to add public restrooms to the Wurster Memorial Splash Pad and Amphitheater in Leetonia is well underway, as a state reimbursement grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources was announced Wednesday for the village. (Submitted photo/Village of Leetonia)

LEETONIA — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) announced that the village of Leetonia is one of the recipients awarded NatureWorks grants for its splash pad.

The village is receiving $48,098 toward its planned public restroom facilities near the Wurster Memorial Splash Pad and Amphitheater.

NatureWorks grants provide up to 75 percent reimbursement assistance to local government recipients for the acquisition, development and rehabilitation of recreational areas.

The ODNR approved 86 projects in 73 counties.

Mayor Kevin Siembida expressed appreciation for the state funds, which also will be added to the $50,000 infusion from Columbiana County commissioners for the projects.

The public restrooms are the next phase of the splash pad project, which was erected at the intersection of Chestnut and Main streets on land that had been donated to the village.

A private foundation, which was endowed by an anonymous donor, has pledged to maintain the splash pad, which was dedicated in June 2024.

Siembida said officials are still fundraising for the restroom project, which is expected to cost around $160,000, and have applied for additional grants.

He hopes to have the restrooms completed by fall 2025 and ready for use for the 2026 summer season.

sujhelyi@mojonews.com