ANTIOCH – Christmas came early this week for the village of Antioch as the Illinois Department of Natural Resources awarded the community a $600,000 grant for the renovation of Centennial Park.
The matching grant was made possible by the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development program, which makes up part of the more than $55.2 million awarded to help communities throughout Illinois with land acquisition, park development and other outdoor recreation projects. The OSLAD program has awarded $640 million for park projects throughout Illinois since 1986.
Centennial Park was built in 1992. The 7.93-acre park was a true community effort, designed and constructed with the help of families and children.
More than 30 years later, the renovation will ensure Centennial Park remains a cherished gathering place for generations to come.
“We are thrilled to receive this grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources,” Mayor Scott Gartner said in the news release. “Centennial Park is a cornerstone of our community and this funding represents a meaningful step in our ongoing efforts to invest in Antioch’s infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for our residents.”
The $600,000 matching grant will be used to revitalize Centennial Park, updating its facilities, improving accessibility and ensuring it meets the needs of today’s families while honoring the park’s legacy. Improvements include a new shelter and updates to the park’s tennis courts, trails, signage and landscaping.
The project is not expected to begin until 2026, according to the release.
From its inception, Centennial Park has been more than just a playground. It has been a symbol of what can be accomplished when a community works together, Assistant Village Administrator Jim Moran said.
“These improvements intend to provide updated, full accessible and expanded offerings to Antioch residents based off community feedback,” Moran said in the release. “As the village of Antioch looks ahead to the park’s transformation, this grant serves as a testament to the community’s dedication to creating spaces that foster connection, recreation and pride.”