Rockford Sun

State Representative Joe Sosnowski, R-Rockford, and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) have announced that two major park projects in McHenry County have received state grants through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program.

The Marengo Park District has been awarded $600,000 for the "Venue in the Park" project at Indian Oaks Park. This project will include an amphitheater with natural seating, a recreational and performing arts stage, outdoor sand volleyball courts, restroom and concession facilities, a splash pad for children and family play, and rentable space for private events.

The Huntley Park District has also been awarded $509,500 for the renovation of Weiss Park. This park, located at 9891 Bennington Drive, will undergo significant improvements to enhance the recreational experience for the community.

Representative Sosnowski expressed his support for the projects, stating, "McHenry County is home to many of Illinois' best public parks and recreation areas. Both the 'Venue in the Park' project in Marengo and Weiss Park in Huntley are especially worthy recipients of this state grant, as each will provide families and neighbors an engaging place to gather and make new memories together for special occasions or everyday play."

He also acknowledged the efforts of the community members who planned these projects, recognizing their vision in meeting the needs of local families for generations to come. Representative Sosnowski added, "Residents of Huntley and Marengo can be very proud of their success as we look forward to the completion of these renovated parks with great anticipation."

The OSLAD program, established by the Illinois General Assembly in 1986, is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that helps communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. It has become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois, with a total of nearly $585 million awarded for park projects throughout the state.

Representative Sosnowski played a crucial role in supporting these projects by providing a Letter of Support for the initiatives led by the Huntley Park District and Marengo Park District.