HOWLAND — While officials have emphasized the importance of creating more walkable areas in the township based on feedback from residents, they’re also looking to build upon what they already have — starting with a grant.

Trustees at a recent meeting authorized a grant application seeking $15,000 from AARP to replace sidewalks in Orwig Park, noting the present ones to be “uneven” and potentially causing a tripping hazard, according to Administrator James Pantalone.

“The bricks down there have just become a problem, certainly a safety hazard,” Pantalone said. “The $15,000 is not going to cover the whole project, but trying to maximize some grant dollars, so we might have to supplement. We’ll be gathering quotes for that as well.”

Pantalone said they intend to submit an application, but if they cannot work within the grant’s budget, the township will likely do repairs to the current pavers.

Township Planning Director Kim Mascarella said during the meeting’s public session that AARP sends out grant solicitations yearly, and officials were informed about it through the Trumbull County Planning Commission, which said the money is available for projects that benefit seniors.

“Our farmers’ market is held every Saturday in the summer; we have a senior farmers’ market nutrition program that provides financial assistance to seniors to buy fresh fruits and vegetables,” Mascarella said. “The uneven sidewalks, it’s a disincentive — it frightens older people from coming and taking advantage of those incentives.”

Mascarella said the township is coordinating with the school district, which is in favor of the improvements.

Mascarella added the school district has not been asked to contribute to the project.