DES PLAINES – State Senator Laura Murphy is urging park districts in the 28th District to apply for Open Space Land Acquisition Grants through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
“Our park districts work around the clock to provide activities and maintain green spaces for our community,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “These grants are a critical opportunity for park districts to receive support in their work to fuel recreation and opportunity in the 28th District.”
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.
The application is open now and closes on Aug. 31. More information can be found here.
