Applications are now being accepted for the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) Program. The OSLAD Program, offered through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, is a state-financed grant program that provides funding assistance to local government agencies for the acquisition and/or development of land for public parks and open space.

All local governments must be authorized by Illinois law to spend public funds for those purposes. School districts are not eligible. These projects can range from smaller neighborhood parks to larger county nature areas.

Under this program, grants can cover up to 50% of approved project costs, or up to 90% of costs for economically distressed communities. Grants for acquisition projects can be awarded up to $1.725 million, while development or renovation projects are limited to a maximum of $600,000. All applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on September 13.

To read more about the application process click here.