FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Derek Harms
Date: January 16, 2025 Phone: (217) 544- 1751 ext. 1000
SPRINGFIELD PARK DISTRICT RECEIVES $600,000 OSLAD GRANT TO REDEVELOP DREAMLAND PARK
Springfield, IL – The Springfield Park District is pleased to announce that Dreamland Park has been awarded a $600,000 grant through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). This competitive state grant will support the redevelopment and enhancement of Dreamland Park, ensuring improved recreational amenities and expanded outdoor opportunities for residents.
The OSLAD program – funded in part through the state’s real estate transfer tax and jointly administered by IDNR – assists local agencies in acquiring land and developing outdoor recreation spaces. It is one of Illinois’ most impactful park investment programs, having supported numerous community projects statewide since its inception.
The Springfield Park Distirct’s mission is to provide accessible, memorable recreational opportunities that enrich the community, improve quality of life for generations, and conserve natural resources. This grant supports that mission by helping the District transform Dreamland Park into a welcoming, vibrant space that fosters outdoor recreation, health, and community connection.
Planned improvements at Dreamland Park will focus on: upgraded playground and play equipment, renovated park shelter, improved fishing pier, and modernized pathways.
“The Park District is grateful to Senator Turner for her consistent support in improving the quality of life for her constituents,” said Leslie Sgro, Park Board President.”This grant to upgrade Dreamland Park in Springfield will provide another generation the opportunity to make positive memories building on the already rich history of the park.”
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For more information on this topic and any other Park District news-related items, please visit our website at springfieldparks.org
About the Springfield Park District: Parks, People, and Possibilities
The Springfield Park District was organized on February 8, 1900. It was the second Park District organized in the state of Illinois. The Springfield Park District serves approximately 140,000 residents and its boundaries encompass the greater portion of the Springfield metropolitan area, covering approximately 60 square miles, 2,500 acres of parkland, 322 acres of Nature Preserve, 35 parks, 23 miles of bike trails, and four golf courses.