Hanover Park Park District awarded OSLAD grant for the new Discovery Park playground

Hanover Park Park District recently has been awarded a $600,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant program.

This grant will help fund the construction of the new Discovery Park playground, a project voted on by the community in 2022.

The new playground is part of a larger effort by the state to create more recreational opportunities for communities throughout Illinois.

The grant represents one of 118 recipients of OSLAD funding across the state and is among the largest grants ever awarded through this 36-year-old program. Governor JB Pritzker praised the program's success in helping to fund projects that promote outdoor recreation and "will provide access to nature and green space for families all across our state."

The new Hanover Park playground, expected to be completed within two years, will feature interactive play elements intended to stimulate physical activity while teaching kids about nature through exploration and discovery.

The design includes plenty of natural materials, as well as different levels of terrain for climbing and jumping. There are also plans for plenty of green spaces surrounding the playground for families to enjoy.

"We are thrilled that our community voted overwhelmingly in support of this project, which will help improve the quality of life in our town," said District Executive Director, Bob O'Brien. "This tremendous opportunity provided by the OSLAD grant gives us an immense sense of pride knowing we have been able to bring together resources to better serve the community," said Superintendent of Parks & Planning, Steve Bessette.

Construction on Discovery Park Playground is expected to begin next year, with completion anticipated within two years' time. The local community can look forward to enjoying a safe and stimulating outdoor recreational experience at their doorstep very soon.