DES PLAINES – State Senator Laura Murphy is encouraging communities with economic challenges in the 28th District to apply for assistance through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program. The program, which usually requires matching funds for projects, now offers complete assistance for distressed communities.

“Local parks provide an invaluable service to the community. Securing funding for them will revitalize our communities and attract further investments in the future,” said Murphy (D- Des Plaines). “I encourage all local park districts to apply for this grant opportunity.”

The FY 23 budget allocated $56 million for OSLAD, the largest single investment in the program’s history, allowing the Department of Natural Resources to assist more communities than ever before. OSLAD requires grantees to provide matching funds for development projects, however with this investment the program is offering complete funding for economically disadvantaged communities.

Applications are being accepted through Sept. 30, 2022 and should be submitted to IDNR. For more information on the OSLAD program, visit IDNR’s website.