5 things to know: Springfield Township receives funding to help ailing Springfield Lake

Springfield Township trustees on Thursday are expected to consider — and likely move forward — on a plan to construct retention ponds across the street from town hall in the Sawyerwood area of the town.

The project, said township Trustee Kellie Chapman, would help improve water quality for Springfield Lake by holding and filtering storm runoff that would otherwise flow into the lake.

State funding for the idea became available last month as Ohio lawmakers finalized capital spending plans. Chapman worked with state Rep. Jack Daniels to secure funding in Ohio HB 2. She was notified June 28 that their effort had been successful.

How much will the retention ponds cost?

Springfield Township will receive $250,000 for the retention ponds, but some township funds may be required to complete the project, Chapman said.

A study for the project had already been conducted, but rising material and labor costs since the study was completed could add to the cost, she said in an interview July 2.

"We may have to come up with a little bit because we'll get updated bids," she said.

Funding came together fast for Springfield retention ponds

Daniels, who replaced former state Rep. Bob Young on April 24, said he wasn't in office during much of the budget process.

But he was able to secure financing for the township project after a quick response from Chapman, who forwarded plans from the retention pond study.

"Within minutes, she had everything emailed to me," he said. "I was able to submit it."

Daniels said he wants to make water quality in his district's lakes and rivers a key issue during his time in office.

How big is Springfield Lake?

Springfield Lake, which is shared by the township and Lakemore Village, is 290 acres with a maximum depth of 27 feet.

Although the lake is used for fishing, swimming and wading are discouraged — as is contact with the water.

The lake has unsafe levels of algal toxins and a health advisory remains in effect until safe levels are achieved. Results from water testing are posted on the township's website at https://t.ly/u01R3.

Where are the retention ponds planned?

The ponds are planned for a lot across state Route 224 from town hall, in the township's Sawyerwood neighborhood.

"It's going to be a nice space and it's going to benefit the area," said Daniels.

When will the ponds be built?

Chapman said she wants to move as quickly as possible.

"We're hoping to get started by fall," she said.

The long-term goal is to get the lake in better condition.

"We would like to utilize it as much as possible," she said.

Leave a message for Alan Ashworth at 330-996-3859 or email him at aashworth@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @newsalanbeaconj or Facebook at www.facebook.com/alan.newsman.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: 5 things about retention pond plan to help Springfield Lake