Prairie State Wire

More than $28 million in state grants have been awarded to local governments across Illinois for various recreational projects. Governor JB Pritzker announced the funding, which is part of the Park and Recreational Facility Construction Act (PARC) grant program. This initiative is under the umbrella of Governor Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois capital improvement program, administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

Governor Pritzker emphasized the significance of these investments, stating, "From roads and bridges to parks and recreational buildings, my administration's landmark Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan is leaving no part of our state's infrastructure untouched." He added that these grants aim to enhance public recreational spaces that promote wellness while protecting the environment.

The PARC grant program covers up to 90% of project costs for building or renovating public recreational facilities or purchasing land for such purposes. Local governments are required to match the value of the grants awarded. IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie expressed enthusiasm about community engagement in expanding access to recreational opportunities.

Peter Murphy, president and CEO of the Illinois Association of Park Districts, highlighted that "The PARC program creates jobs, supports small businesses and labor, promotes physical and mental health," among other benefits.

Several communities will benefit from this funding:

- The City of Anna plans a $2.8 million redesign of its ballpark.

- Arlington Heights Park District will use $2.8 million for pool renovations.

- Batavia Park District aims to convert an office building into a recreation center with its $2.8 million grant.

- The Village of Crossville will update Tiger Park with a $324,047 grant.

- Decatur Park District plans a senior center renovation with $2.8 million.

- Macon County Conservation District will renovate office space with $870,750.

- Glenview Park District will update its aquatics center using $2.8 million.

- Highland Park will build a new community center at West Ridge Park with its $2.8 million allocation.

- Northbrook Park District has plans for interior renovations totaling $2.8 million.

- Oak Lawn Park District intends to remodel Memorial Park Recreation Center with a $2.1 million budget.

- Rock Island's Saukie Golf Course clubhouse replacement is funded by a $901,800 grant.

- Rockford Park District will develop Clarence Hicks Sports Park using its $2.8 million share.

- Woodstock plans extensive renovations on its recreation center with a budget of $2.8 million.

State representatives and senators have voiced their support for these projects as they promise improvements in accessibility, safety, and community engagement through enhanced recreational facilities.