WAUKEGAN – State Senator Adriane Johnson is encouraging communities with economic challenges in the 30^th District to apply for assistance through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program. The program, which usually requires matching funds for projects, now offers complete assistance for distressed communities.

“Now is the time we utilize funding to rebuild local parks in our communities and provide our children and neighbors with safe and new attractions,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “I am encouraging our park districts to take advantage of the opportunity by applying for this grant.”

In the district Johnson represents, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources highlighted North Chicago and Waukegan as economically disadvantaged communities.

The FY 23 budget allocated $56 million for OSLAD, the largest single investment in the program’s history, allowing IDNR to assist more communities than ever before. OSLAD requires grantees to provide matching funds for development projects, however with this investment the program is offering complete funding 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.

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