CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) announced today the awarding of more than $55.2 million in grants to fund 100 local park projects throughout Illinois. These grants, part of the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program, will help communities acquire land and develop recreational spaces, enhancing the quality of life for residents across the state.
The OSLAD program, which was established by the Illinois General Assembly in 1986, continues to play a key role in supporting park projects, providing crucial matching funds for local governments to fund park and outdoor recreation projects. The $55.2 million in grants will be distributed across a range of projects, from large urban areas like Chicago to rural communities in downstate Illinois.
“For the third year in a row, we’ve ensured that funding is allocated for economically distressed communities, with $17.3 million going to 29 underserved locations,” Governor Pritzker said in a statement. “These investments will help build stronger, healthier communities by creating new green spaces and recreational opportunities for all.”
The OSLAD program has been instrumental in improving access to outdoor spaces across Illinois, with over $640 million in funding awarded to park projects since its inception. This latest round of funding will support a wide variety of park enhancements, including playgrounds, walking paths, sports fields, and aquatic centers.
“These grants represent a collective effort to improve the quality of life for Illinois residents,” said IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie. “Whether it’s enhancing a community’s local park or creating new recreational opportunities, these projects help foster healthier lifestyles and create a sense of pride within the community.”
As part of the grant announcement, the Pritzker administration emphasized the importance of investing in green spaces and outdoor recreation, particularly in economically distressed areas. The OSLAD program has helped level the playing field by providing funds for parks in both urban and rural areas, ensuring that communities of all sizes can benefit from state-supported park improvements.
For more information on the OSLAD program and a full list of grant recipients, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website here.