FRANKFORT – State Senator Michael E. Hastings is urging communities across the South Suburbs to apply for grants to cover the costs of local park development through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program.

“Our local parks are essential to promoting a healthy lifestyle and the economic and environmental well-being of our communities,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “I encourage communities across the fighting 19^th looking for assistance to take advantage of this opportunity.”

Hastings supported the Fiscal Year 2023 budget which set aside $56 million for OSLAD, the largest single investment in the program’s history, allowing the Department of Natural Resources to assist more communities than ever before.

The program, which usually requires matching funds for projects, now offers complete assistance for economically disadvantaged communities.

Applications are being accepted through Sept. 30, 2022 and should be submitted to IDNR. For more information on the OSLAD program, visit IDNR’s website.