DeKalb Park District to Receive $600,000 State Grant for Local Park Development

Thu December 19, 2024

DeKalb, IL— DeKalb Park District is thrilled to announce that it has been chosen to receive a $600,000 Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant from the State of Illinois. These funds will be utilized to revitalize the League of Women Voters Park, located at 262 Cotton Avenue in DeKalb. The overall project cost is estimated to be $742,000.  While our playgrounds are regularly inspected and maintained, replacing aging playground equipment is vital to ensure the safety, accessibility, and enjoyment of our parks. Typically, park districts replace playgrounds every 15-17 years, and the playground at League of Women Voters Park was last updated in 2009.  

In a collaborative effort with the community, Upland Design, District Board Members, and staff held a public meeting on June 25, 2024, in League of Women Voters Park. An online survey was also conducted from June 25 to July 3, allowing the community to select one of four playground options and provide crucial feedback for additional park amenities. The active participation of 19 in-person and 74 online respondents was instrumental in choosing a new playground theme and additional amenities such as a half basketball court, a new game area, fitness equipment stations, and a new rain garden and interpretive signage.  The existing asphalt trail will also be renovated.

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) have demonstrated their commitment to local communities by awarding $55.2 million to 100 communities for local park development projects as part of the latest round of OSLAD grants. This significant contribution underscores the importance of the OSLAD program in supporting and enhancing local parks.

"Since I became Governor, it's been my mission to build stronger, healthier communities across Illinois," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Through the OSLAD program, we're bringing that vision to life by awarding over $55.2 million to local park projects, expanding green spaces, and creating new recreational opportunities for all."

Established by the Illinois General Assembly in 1986, 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 $640 million for park projects throughout Illinois (including the award announced today).

Demolition and construction are tentatively scheduled to begin in the summer of 2025.

For more information about DeKalb Park District Capital Improvement Projects, please visit dekalbparkdistrict.com/capital-improvement-projects or call (815) 758-6663.