DNR is hosting an informational zoom on the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Grant (OSLAD) on Wednesday May 15th at 11:00 a.m.
Park districts and units of local government are invited to attend and learn about the application process for OSLAD, how the grant works, and more!
Here is the link for the event: OSLAD Grant Submission Webinar for Potential Applicants.
The Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Program is a state-financed grant program that provides funding assistance to local government agencies for acquisition and/or development of land for public parks and open space. The federal Land & Water Conservation Fund program (known as both LWCF and LAWCON) is a similar program with similar objectives. Both are managed in Illinois by the Department of Natural Resources with concurrent application due dates, equal grant maximums and similar general rules.
OSLAD Eligible Projects
- Acquisition of land for new park sites or park expansion, water frontage, nature study, and natural resource preservation. (LWCF & OSLAD)
- Development/Renovation of: (OSLAD only)
- Picnic and playground facilities;
- Outdoor nature interpretive facilities;
- Sports courts and play fields;
- Swimming pools, beaches and bathhouses;
- Campgrounds and fishing piers;
- winter sports facilities;
- Park roads and paths, parking, utilities and restrooms; and
- Architectural/engineering (A/E) services necessary for proper design and construction of approved project components.