DEERFIELD – Thanks to strong support from State Senator Julie Morrison, local parks received a combined total of $1.8 million from the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant to help continue ongoing improvements.
“An investment in our parks is an investment in our communities,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “The 29th Senate District has some of the best parks in the state, and that is – in part – thanks to state funding we’ve brought to the area.”
OSLAD is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that helps communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. It’s become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. Since its establishment, OSLAD has awarded $675 million for park projects throughout Illinois.
Northbrook Park District, Prospect Heights Park District and the City of Lake Forest each received a total of $600,000 for their respective projects. With the funding, Techny Prairie Park and Fields will be renovated, Country Gardens Park will see redevelopment, and South Park will see continued enhancements.
“Our team at the Park District is excited to see this major project move forward with the support of OSLAD funding. The renovation of Techny Prairie Park and Fields — a well-used asset that is nearing the end of its useful life — has strong community backing, developed through an extensive community engagement process,” said Northbrook Park District Executive Director Chris Leiner. “District leadership is grateful for the continued support of our local legislators who prioritize funding for park districts.”
