Municipalities, Park Districts urged to apply for IDNR grant 

State Senator Patrick Joyce is urging park districts and municipalities in the 40th District to apply for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant (OSLAD).  “Everyone in the community benefits when parks are kept in good shape,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “I encourage all those in the 40th District with projects in the works to apply before the coming deadline.” 

This year, $37.5 million in grant funding is available for qualifying applicants. IDNR will provide funding to cover 90% of eligible projects in underserved communities. Eligible projects can include development or renovation of picnic tables, playgrounds, fishing piers, sports courts/fields, park paths and more. Communities whose parks have been damaged as a result of severe weather are encouraged to apply as well. 

OSLAD is a matching state grant program that offers monetary assistance for the acquisition and/or development of land for public parks and outdoor recreation areas. Since its establishment in 1986, OSLAD has awarded over $675 million for local park projects across the state. 

“Our region in particular has seen some pretty devastating weather recently,” said Joyce. “This is a perfect opportunity to rebuild what was lost.” 

The application is open now and closes on Aug. 31.  

94.1 WGFA