Carbondale, Mound City to receive state grants for park projects

CARBONDALE, Ill. (KBSI) – Nearly $55 million in state grants will be awarded for 111 local park projects throughout Illinois.

The money is to help communities acquire land and develop recreational opportunities.

Thirty-two underserved locations will receive $18.7 million in grants from the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program. This is the 37th year for the program. It iss administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

“Since day one as Governor, it’s been my mission to support the health and well-being of Illinoisans,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “With funding from the OLSAD program, municipalities across Illinois will have the opportunity to expand and improve local neighborhood parks through sport and recreational space, plants, playgrounds, and more. All across Illinois, we’re enhancing our state’s natural beauty and creating safer, healthier, and happier communities.”

OSLAD was established by the Illinois General Assembly in 1986. It is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that helps communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. The program awarded nearly $585 million for park projects throughout Illinois (including the awards announced on January 30).

“I appreciate Governor Pritzker’s continued efforts to ensure funding for the OSLAD program, which is a vital tool for communities to build safe, engaging, and accessible outdoor spaces for their residents,” said IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie. “An investment in the outdoors is an investment in the health and well-being of the people of Illinois. We know that 83% of Illinoisans consider access to outdoor recreational opportunities important for them and their families. And studies show time and again that that getting outside leads to better overall health.”

Among the OSLAD park projects included in this round of funding is renovation of Crispus Attucks Park in Carbondale which has been identified as an economically distressed community. The Carbondale Park District plans to replace the park’s current playground equipment which is in disrepair. Updates to the park will include the addition of disabled-accessible flooring, swings and playground equipment, as there is no other accessible park in the area that is suitable for children as young as 3 up to teenagers.

Plans also call for installing a zip line and a climbing structure. Neither of those features area in community parks in southern Illinois. The park district expects the renovation will bring excitement and enjoyment to the neighborhood, as well as a sense of community pride.

“The Carbondale Park District is thrilled to learn that we have been chosen for an OSLAD grant for Attucks Park. This park holds a significant place in the history of Carbondale and for the people it honors,” said Trey Anderson, executive director of the Carbondale Park District. “This project is much needed and will help the surrounding community by offering an upgraded play area for enhanced outdoor activity and community inclusion. Thank you to the State of Illinois and IDNR for investing in our neighborhoods with safe and accessible playgrounds.”

“OSLAD is one of the state’s most significant grant programs. For more than 30 years, it has raised the quality of life in communities throughout Illinois,” said Peter Murphy, president and CEO of the Illinois Association of Park Districts. “We commend Governor Pritzker and the General Assembly for their strong support and continued investment in local park and recreation projects that create opportunities for Illinois youth.”

Some of the other projects awarded OSLAD grants include:

The city of Mound City will receive an OSLAD grant and use the money to improve the existing city park, including disabled accessible walking path and connecting sidewalks, a disabled accessible parking area, a new playground structure and ground cover pad, replacement of the basketball court, and additional benches.

“Investing in our outdoor spaces and local parks is a great opportunity to enrich the lives of many seeking a new modernized all-inclusive space for all,” said State Senator Dale Fowler of Harrisburg. “The OSLAD program not only invests in parks and recreation, but it also fosters a healthier, happier community for all.”