IDNR accepting OSLAD park development grant applications starting July 1

By Tribune Staff • The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is accepting applications for Open Space Land Acquisition and Development, or OSLAD, grants through Aug. 31.

A total of $37.5 million is available for this round of OSLAD grants. IDNR will again provide funding to cover 100% of eligible projects in economically distressed communities. In the most recent round of OSLAD awards announced in January, 20 underserved locations received grants for local park projects.

In addition, communities whose parks need to be rebuilt as a result of storm damage are encouraged to apply for OSLAD grants. Under state administrative rules, entities recovering from storm damage can apply as physically distressed communities, allowing them to only need 10% matching funds.

“Strong parks build strong communities. When severe storms damage our parks, the effects are felt by families, children and neighborhoods,” said Interim IDNR Director Renee Snow. “OSLAD grants can help rebuild the outdoor spaces that are essential for community connection, resilience and well-being.”

OSLAD is a matching grant program that offers state-financed funding assistance to local governmental agencies for the acquisition and/or development of land for public parks and outdoor recreation areas. Since it was established by the Illinois General Assembly in 1986, OSLAD has awarded more than $675 million for local park projects throughout Illinois.

Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 31 through the Amplifund portal website. Before applying for a grant, entities must be registered and current in the state’s Grant Accountability and Transparency Act grantee portal. For more information, visit the OSLAD website or call 217-782-7481.