Governor JB Pritzker has some great news for parks across Illinois—more than $55.2 million in grant funding has been awarded to improve local parks and create new recreational opportunities! This funding will help 100 parks statewide, making communities greener, healthier, and more fun for everyone.
What’s even better? A big chunk of this money—about $17.3 million—is going to 29 economically distressed communities that need it most. It’s all part of the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program, which has been helping Illinois build and improve parks since 1986.
Governor Pritzker explained, “We’re expanding green spaces and bringing new recreational opportunities to communities all over Illinois.” And it’s working—over the years, the OSLAD program has funded $640 million in park projects!
Here’s a look at a few communities getting a boost from these grants:
A New Park with a River View in Hamburg, Calhoun County
Hamburg, a tiny village with just 99 residents, is getting a big upgrade. The village will use its $599,150 grant to create a beautiful riverside park. Plans include an elevated boardwalk for river viewing and fishing, better parking for boats, new pathways, and seating areas surrounded by native plants. They’re also adding signs to teach visitors about the area’s history and natural resources.
Village trustee Kathi Beyer couldn’t be more excited. “We’ve been working on this for three years. This park will not only bring our residents closer together but also make our community more sustainable and welcoming for visitors,” she said.
Rockford Park District’s Harkins Aquatic Center Gets a Makeover
Rockford’s popular Harkins Aquatic Center—a free swimming facility—is getting a $600,000 grant for much-needed updates. The pool, last renovated in 2003, will get a brand-new liner, safety fixes to its water slide, renovated shower rooms, and better accessibility for everyone.
Jay Sandine, the Executive Director of Rockford Park District, shared how much this means to the community. “With limited funding, grants like these are critical. The upgrades will ensure families can keep enjoying Harkins for years to come.”
A New Community Park in New Haven, Gallatin County
The village of New Haven, home to about 400 residents, is building a brand-new park thanks to a $482,400 grant. The park will include a basketball court, an accessible playground for kids of all abilities, a pavilion, sidewalks, and fencing.
Mayor Martin Duffy couldn’t hide his joy. “Small towns matter! Thanks to this grant, the children of New Haven will have a wonderful place to play and grow.”
Riverton Expands its “Field of Dreams” Park
In Riverton, Sangamon County, the popular Field of Dreams Park is getting even bigger and better with a $600,000 grant. The park will add exciting new features like an amphitheater, a splash pad, a Zen garden, and an 8-foot-wide walking path. There will also be a new concession stand, restrooms, and extra parking.
Village President Joe Bartley called it a game-changer: “This grant is moving us forward. We’re adding the amenities our residents have been asking for. It’s a huge opportunity for Riverton.”
A Statewide Effort to Improve Parks
From small rural villages to bustling cities like Rockford, this round of OSLAD grants proves that every community matters. Natalie Phelps Finnie, Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, summed it up best: “These grants bring creativity and ambition to life. We’re thrilled to help communities across the state thrive.”
Whether it’s a peaceful river view in Calhoun County, a splashy summer day in Rockford, or kids playing on a new court in Gallatin County, these grants are turning local parks into places where memories are made and communities grow stronger.
