DeKalb Park District Awarded Build the Future Grant for New Welsh Park Shelter

Thu August 27, 2026

Photo Credits: DeKalb County Community Foundation

The DeKalb Park District has been awarded a $50,000 Build the Future Grant from the DeKalb County Community Foundation to install a new shelter in Welsh Park.

The District plans to purchase and install a manufactured park shelter that can be used daily by park goers but can also be utilized as an amphitheater for musicians and act as a gathering point for other events. This shelter will provide additional shaded space for park goers to enjoy, as well as serve as a focal point for special events, such as Fun Jam in the Park hosted by Opportunity DeKalb.

The placement of the new shelter is anticipated to be near the existing spray ground and shelter/restroom building. The existing shelter will receive an electrical upgrade to accommodate the electrical needs of the new structure.

“With this new shelter and updated electrical infrastructure, we'll be able to enhance the events Welsh Park already hosts and create room to bring even more programming to the community,” said Paul Zepezauer, DeKalb Park District Executive Director. 

Welsh Park was chosen as the shelter’s new location for the shelter as a continuation of the 2018 Annie Glidden North Revitalization Plan released by the City of DeKalb. 

Previous improvements to the park include a new asphalt trail, playground, spray ground, rain garden and installation of new basketball and pickleball courts. These projects were funded by an Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD grant in 2020. 

In 2027, the District plans to provide Fun Jam musicians with a dedicated performance space connected to the event, to host a Movie in the Park event, as well as a concert at the site. 

Long-term goals for the space include hosting weekly events throughout the summer, along with additional seasonal events in spring and fall.

To stay up to date on all District projects, visit dekalbparkdistrict.com.