DeKalb Park District to use $600K in state grants to replace park playground

DeKALB – The DeKalb Park District this week announced a plan to use $600,000 in state grant money to replace old playground equipment at League of Women Voters Park, 262 Cotton Ave.

The district recently was awarded the money from the state’s Open Space Land Acquisition and Development Grant program, according to a news release.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Gov. JB Pritzker awarded a total of $55.2 million in grants to 100 Illinois communities for park development projects. The grants were presented as part of OSLAD’s latest grants round.

“Since I became governor, it’s been my mission to build stronger, healthier communities across Illinois,” Pritzker said in a news release. “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.”

The full DeKalb park project is estimated to cost $742,000, according to the district. The League of Women Voters Park playground previously was updated in 2009. The park demolition and construction is scheduled to begin in the summer.

DeKalb Park District staff and board members partnered with Upland Design to hold a public meeting June 25 at the park. An online survey also was held from June 25 to July 3. The survey allowed resident to select playground options and provide additional feedback on park amenities.

The meeting and survey selected a playground theme and amenities including a half basketball court, game area, rain garden and interpretive signage, and fitness equipment stations. The park’s asphalt trail also will be renovated.

The Open Space Land Acquisition and Development is a cost-sharing program for state and local governments that aids communities in funding land acquisition and park and outdoor recreation project development.