A Project Open Space grant from the state will make spending a day in Sykesville's largest park more comfortable.

The town soon will receive a $40,000 grant from the state Department of Natural Resources and plans to use the money to build restrooms in Millard Cooper Park.

"As long as we get everyone's blessing, it looks like we will get the grant in this fiscal year," said Town Manger James L. Schumacher.

In addition to Sykesville, Mount Airy, Hampstead and Westminster are slated for grants.

The Carroll County Commissioners will review the grant proposals this week.

Richard Soisson, county director of Recreation and Parks, said the commissioners usually have no problem with the state's recommendations for open space areas.

Sykesville schedules many community events, including its summer concert series, which draws crowds, at the park on Springfield Avenue along Route 32.

"The park is well used and restrooms are badly needed," Mr. Schumacher said. "The Spot-a-Pots [portable toilets] are just not doing the job."

The grant money will pay for architectural design, which must be "vandal-proof," Mr. Schumacher said. The money also will cover construction costs, including the $8,000 the county will charge for a water and sewer tap fees.

Mr. Schumacher said he probably would put the job out to bid in February. Once the Town Council approves a bid, construction can begin, possibly in March.

"We should have everything ready in the park by next summer," he said.