MAYWOOD – The Park District of Forest Park and Westchester Park District are set to receive over $1 million for land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford announced Friday.

“This funding will have a positive impact on our communities and help ensure they stay vibrant and welcoming,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “Friends walking in the park, families going to the playground or individuals walking their dog will all feel the benefits of this grant program.”

The Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that has become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. The Park District of Forest Park is set to receive $424,200 and Westchester Park District will receive $600,000.

Around $60 million in state grants is being awarded to 118 local parks across Illinois through the OSLAD program administered through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. This announcement includes the largest round of grants in the 36-year history of the program. The grants are to help communities acquire land and develop recreational opportunities.

To learn more information about the OSLAD grant program, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.