The DeKalb Park District is proud to announce that our community will receive a $395,800 matching dollars for outdoor recreation space projects throughout Illinois. The DeKalb Park District is one of 85 local communities that will benefit from the OSLAD grant.
In a press release issued by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Governor Pritzker stated, “Investments in local park projects are good for families and recreation enthusiasts, helping them enjoy outdoor activities and making Illinois communities better places to live and work,” Governor Pritzker said. “Parks projects also boost local economic development efforts and spur additional investment throughout the state.”
Welsh Park improvements will include a new playground, 8’ wide asphalt walking paths, a splash pad, a rain garden and pollinator area with interpretive sign, pickleball courts, a new full basketball court with bleachers, an accessible park connection with depressed curb, and a game area. The plan will also keep the existing basketball court and shelter. Planning for Welsh Park began in early 2019 with several public input meetings, presentations to and discussions with the Park Board, and several different renderings of the final site plan.
Park Board President Phil Young stated “We are ecstatic about Governor Pritzker’s announcement today about the DeKalb Park District receiving an OSLAD grant for Welsh Park! It will bring much needed improvements to the park, which was identified by the Park District as well as the Annie Glidden North task force. This project will offer enhanced recreational activities for the community, much in the same way that the last OSLAD award helped to rebuild Lions Park, several years ago. This is another great example of collaborative efforts from several units of government, our District Staff and our Board.”
Construction is not expected to begin before Fall 2020. The public is invited to follow along with the progress at our website, https://www.dekalbparkdistrict.com/welsh-park-master-plan, and on our Facebook page.
Click Here To Submit A News Tip Or Story