KANKAKEE – State Senator Patrick Joyce is encouraging local governmental agencies to apply for funding through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program following the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ announcement of $54 million in available funds.

“Parks and other recreational spaces play a vital role in our community and promote both physical and mental well-being,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “It’s important for our area park departments to apply for funding opportunities like OSLAD so facilities can be updated regularly and continue to be accessible to residents.”

OSLAD is a matching grant program that offers funding assistance to local governments to acquire and develop land for public parks. OSLAD provides an advance payment of 50% of the grant award amount for approved development projects. Local agencies must demonstrate their ability to finance the remaining project costs before receiving the rest of the grant funds.

Since its establishment in 1986, OSLAD has become one of the state’s most popular grant programs, awarding over $585 million for park projects across the state. In the most recent round of OSLAD awards announced in January, 32 underserved communities received grants to enhance their local park facilities.

“I encourage eligible agencies to take advantage of this program so our parks can continue to serve not only us, but future generations too,” Joyce added.

The application period closes at 5 p.m. on Sept. 13. For more information, visit IDNR’s website.