Rock Island Today

State Senator Neil Anderson has announced that $3 million in state grants have been awarded to five communities in the 47th District through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program. This program aims to connect underserved communities to the outdoors by funding land acquisition and development for outdoor recreation.

Senator Anderson expressed his enthusiasm for the investments in the district, stating, "The OSLAD Program has served a tremendous role in connecting underserved communities to the great outdoors and it’s great to see a major investment throughout the district. Whether it is modernizing our parks or revitalizing an empty space, it’s crucial for small communities to have a place to gather and connect in nature."

In total, $54.9 million in grants have been awarded to 111 projects across the state this year. The OSLAD program, established in 1986 by the Illinois General Assembly, is a cost-sharing initiative between state and local governments.

The projects in the 47th District include:

- City of Abingdon: $600,000 for improvements to Legion Park, including the installation of a 4,400 square foot splash pad, a new bike path, picnic tables, sidewalks, and designated areas for additional playground equipment.

- City of Dallas City: $600,000 for the addition of an ADA accessible walking path and footbridge at Riverview Park, along with ADA parking, signage, and passing lanes.

- City of Nauvoo: $600,000 for the replacement of an old basketball court with a new basketball/pickleball court, ADA accessible playground equipment, a family restroom, parking spaces, signage, and the installation of a new drinking fountain.

- City of Toulon: $600,000 for the installation of a splash pad, resurfacing of the half basketball court, conversion of the full-size basketball court into a multi-use court, fencing, sign language panels, new ADA playground equipment, and exercise equipment.

- Kewanee Park District: $600,000 for the design and installation of a unique and safe splashpad system for children ages 12 and under at Liberty Park, including a bathhouse and all necessary utilities.

These grants will allow these communities to enhance their parks and provide recreational opportunities for residents of all ages. The investments will help create inclusive spaces that promote physical activity and community engagement.

For a complete list of projects funded by the OSLAD program across the state, visit the official website of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.