Multiple Grants Help Pave The Way To Future Park Improvements
Mundelein Park & Recreation District (mundeleinparks.org) received confirmation of a grant award of $400,000 from Illinois FY 2019 Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program to be used towards development of Clearbrook Park. The District's project was one of 89 Illinois outdoor recreation projects selected for funding assistance by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (dnr.illinois.gov).
"Investments in Illinois' local parks makes it easier for families and recreation enthusiasts to enjoy our state's beauty and help their communities thrive," Governor JB Pritzker said. "Parks projects will also create jobs, providing a boost to local economic development efforts in dozens of communities and spurring additional investment throughout the state."
Clearbrook Park is located on Clearbrook Park Drive, off of Route 45/Lake Street. Its current features include a ballfield, playground and open lawn space. It is pedestrian only access.
"This grant will allow the District to turn this site into a true community park," said Margaret Resnick, Executive Director of Mundelein Park District. "Plans include a new entry point for vehicles and a parking lot, an asphalt trail loop, shelter for park visitors, the only non-school football field and the first lacrosse field in the district."
The total estimated cost for the Clearbrook Park project is $1,500,000.
Mundelein Park District has also been selected to receive matching funds to assist with the replacement of playgrounds at Fairhaven and Hanrahan Parks in 2019. Illinois Park & Recreation Association (IPRA) (ilipra.org) partnered with PlayCore/GameTime (playcore.com) on a grant program to assist park districts to create play and recreation destinations. Through this partnership, Mundelein Park District was selected to receive $85,000.
"We welcome the opportunity to bring new playground equipment to the District through this grant program. We're excited to promote the value of play and have a positive impact on the community," said Derek Solberg, Mundelein Park District Superintendent of Buildings & Grounds.
Conveniently located in north-central Lake County, Mundelein Park & Recreation District consists of more than 800 acres of open space, playgrounds, ballfields, lakes and trails. It serves a growing population of more than 35,000 residents with year-round programs and education and recreational opportunities for all ages. Facilities include the championship 18-hole Steeple Chase Golf Club, multi-function Community Center, Park View Fitness, Diamond Lake Beach, outdoor waterpark Barefoot Bay Family Aquatic Center, Spray Park, Lions Field Skatepark, Regent Center for adults ages 50+, Big & Little Child Development Center, Learning Center Preschool, and Diamond Lake Sports Complex, a unique nature and recreation destination. For more information about Mundelein Park & Recreation District visit www.mundeleinparks.org or follow on Facebook or Twitter and Instagram (@MundeleinParks).