State Representative Joe Sosnowski, R-Rockford, and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) announced today that two major park projects in McHenry County have been awarded a state grant through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program:
- Marengo Park District has been awarded $600,000 for the “Venue in the Park” project at Indian Oaks Park; which will feature an amphitheater with natural seating, a recreational and performing arts stage, outdoor sand volleyball courts, restroom and concession facilities, a splash pad for children and family play, and rentable space for private events.
- Huntley Park District has been awarded $509,500 for the renovation of Weiss Park located at 9891 Bennington Drive.
“McHenry County is home to many of Illinois’ best public parks and recreation areas,” Representative Sosnowski said. “Both the ‘Venue in the Park’ project in Marengo and Weiss Park in Huntley are especially worthy recipients of this state grant, as each will provide families and neighbors an engaging place to gather and make new memories together for special occasions or everyday play. I would like to recognize the efforts of all the community members who planned these projects with a vision that meets the needs of local families for generations to come. Residents of Huntley and Marengo can be very proud of their success as we look forward to the completion of these renovated parks with great anticipation.”
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 has become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. Since it was established, OSLAD has awarded nearly $585 million for park projects throughout Illinois.
Representative Sosnowski provided a Letter of Support for the projects spearheaded by the Huntley Park District and Marengo Park District, respectively.