URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The Urbana Park District has been selected to receive a $600,000 Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant from the State of Illinois to support the revitalization of King Park. The $1.2 million project aims to create an inclusive, accessible space that encourages recreation, cultural connection, and community gathering.
The grant was part of a $36 million award announced by Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, benefiting 67 communities across the state. King Park, located at 915 W. Wascher Drive adjacent to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School, will see upgrades including a themed accessible playground, multi-purpose field, expanded sidewalks, performance band shelter, outdoor classroom, basketball courts, teen hangout terrace, challenge course, and interpretive signage.
Lashaunda Cunningham, whose grandmother was a longtime advocate for community connection, said the project reflects her family’s vision of safe, welcoming neighborhoods. The revitalization will combine the OSLAD grant with a $600,000 local match from the Urbana Park District to ensure King Park continues to serve residents of all ages and abilities.