Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Grant (IL)

Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Grant (IL)

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Last Updated: August 22, 2025

Summary

The Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Grant (OSLAD) provides essential funding to local government agencies in Illinois for the acquisition and development of public parks and open spaces. With maximum awards ranging from $600,000 to $3.45 million based on population, the program supports a diverse range of projects from small neighborhood parks to large community spaces, all aimed at enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities and conserving natural resources.

Overview

Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Grant (IL) Projects vary from small neighborhood parks or tot lots to large community and county parks and nature areas. The state program is financed by a percentage of the state's Real Estate Transfer Tax. Except for jurisdictions having populations exceeding 2.0 million residents, maximum OSLAD grant awards to any one project in a given year is currently limited to $1,125,000 for approved land acquisition projects and $600,000 for approved development (construction) projects. Counties serving a population exceeding 2.0 million residents shall be eligible for up to $1,725,000 in annual OSLAD funding for approved outdoor recreation acquisition and/or development projects. Municipalities with a population exceeding 2.0 million residents are eligible for up to $3,450,000 in annual OSLAD funding for approved projects. HOWEVER, no more than 10% of the annual OSLAD appropriation can be allocated to any one project. Eligible Projects Example of Eligible Projects include: Acquisition of land for new park sites or park expansion, water frontage, nature study, and natural resource preservation. Development/Renovation of: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; andArchitectural/engineering (A/E) services necessary for proper design and construction of approved project components.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. OSLAD grants are available to units of local government that are authorized by Illinois law to expend public funds for the acquisition and development of land for public outdoor park, recreation, or conservation purposes.

Ineligibility

School districts are not eligible.