State grants aid local parks
Dozens of park projects across northern Illinois got a boost Friday with the release of $18 million in state grant money for new developments and existing parks.
The Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Grants will fund 48 projects, including land acquisition, construction of new trails and playgrounds, and the creation of new recreational opportunities including athletic fields and fishing piers, a news release said.
Fox Valley recipients include Lake in the Hills, which was awarded $400,000 for additions to Sunset Park.
Lake in the Hills Parks and Recreation Director Trudy Wakeman said the money would be used to build softball and baseball fields, a football complex and a splash pad.
"We are very excited," Wakeman said. "This won't complete the project, there is still a lot to be done. But this is a step toward completing the project."
As part of the grant, Lake in the Hills will contribute matching funds, Wakeman said.
Other area beneficiaries include:
Crystal Lake Park District: $177,800 to provide picnic shelter with restrooms and fireplace, additional parking designed to accommodate school buses, interpretive signs, trail improvements, bioswales and wet detention areas with native plants at Sterne's Woods and Fen.
Dundee Township: $400,000 to develop 178 acres of the Jelkes Creek Bird Sanctuary on Boncosky Road. Projects include wetlands and prairie restoration, bike path connection, fishing ledges, interpretive trails with signs, a shelter, restrooms and parking.
Hampshire Twp. Park District: $157,400 to develop the 3.1-acre Dorothy J. Schmidt Memorial Park south of Illinois Route 72. Projects include a basketball court, two shelters, disc golf, a playground, a path system with fitness stations and a game area with shuffleboard.
Kane County Forest Preserve: $400,000 to develop the 561-acre Muirhead Springs Forest Preserve on Rohrsen Road off Route 47. Projects include equestrian trails, hiking trails with interpretive signs, picnic shelters, a restroom, parking and wetlands and prairie restoration.
McHenry County Conservation District: $750,000 to acquire a 57-acre parcel on Crystal Lake Road in eastern McHenry County.
South Elgin: $225,000 for development of Thornwood Park on McDonald Road. Projects include a soccer field, skate park, trails with fitness stations, native prairie plants and landscaping.