Prospect Heights’ Country Gardens Park receives $600,000 state grant for improvements

The Prospect Heights Park District has received a $600,000 state grant for a $1.2 million plan to expand and improve the 9-acre Country Gardens Park on Schoenbeck Road.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant will add amenities to the park just north of Palatine Road that connects to the community’s 4-mile bike path.

Planned improvements include a new looped walking path connecting the entire park, pickleball courts and additional court games, a permanent picnic shelter, new playgrounds for both tots and older children, a seating area overlooking the playground with a pollinator garden and native landscaping, and enhancements to the existing sand volleyball and basketball courts.

The project also will add shade structures, bike racks and benches. All existing amenities will remain, including the mature trees, bike path, soccer field, tennis court and portable restrooms.

“This investment in Country Gardens Park represents a significant step forward in enhancing recreational opportunities and creating a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable park experience for the Prospect Heights community,” park district Executive Director Christina Ferraro said. “The OSLAD grant allows us to make meaningful improvements that will benefit residents of all ages for decades to come.”

Construction is expected to occur over a 2-year-period. The park district is marking its 60th anniversary.

The OSLAD program awarded $55.2 million to more than 100 communities in its latest round of grants. Since its establishment 40 years ago, more than $640 million has been awarded.