Elk Grove Park District was informed in January that they were awarded an Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) Grant in the amount of $266,800 to improve the southeast corner of the Hattendorf Park at 225 E.Elk Grove Boulevard. Additional project funds will come from the Elk Grove Park District Capital Projects Budget to complete the project.
Governor J.B. Pritzker awarded $29.7 million in grants for 85 local projects which will help communities acquire open space and develop and improve recreational facilities throughout Illinois.
“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.”
The OSLAD grant will fund a multigenerational family area with table tennis, a bags court, seating areas and tables, an outdoor full size chess/checker board, outdoor fitness stations, a looped walking path with 3 STEM stations and a pollinator garden with interpretive signage. STEM (Science Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) learning and play stations will provide interactive and educational activities that encourage everyone to exercise their bodies and their brains.
The Elk Grove Park District parks are updated on a planned schedule and the District has made improvements to Hattendorf Park such as the multigenerational inclusive playground, upgrades to the 2010 playground, new shade shelters by the bocce courts and an accessible ramp. The OSLAD grant will help us to complete the site improvements.
Residents in the Hattendorf neighborhood and the Adult Center Advisory Board met with staff to provide input for potential site improvements that will complement the programs and activities at the Sheila Ray Adult Center and the Preschool.
Construction is scheduled to start in the late summer 2020 and be completed by Spring 2021.