$600K Grant To Help Transform Lake Forest's South Park

LAKE FOREST, IL — Lake Forest was awarded $600,000 in grant funding for the second phase of its South Park Master Plan.

Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources annouced last week they would give $36 million in grant funding to 67 local park projects throughout the state through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program. Lake Forest's project was one of only three Lake County projects awarded.

“As Governor, I’m committed to building stronger, healthier communities in Illinois. My administration continues to make critical investments that support underserved areas, and we’re proud to bring new recreational facilities and expanded green spaces to communities through the OSLAD program,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “From playgrounds and walking trails to pickleball courts and native landscaping, we’re investing millions to revitalize outdoor gathering spaces, strengthen local communities, and offer new recreational opportunities to Illinois families across the state.”

This second phase will expand South Park's recreational offerings that include a hammock grove, a splash pad, direct access to the Robert McClory Bike Path, an open-air picnic shelter, bag toss and table games, a bike repair station, baseball field upgrades, a woodland trail and another outdoor fitness station.

The city also received an OSLAD grant for Phase 1 of the master plan, which introduced a new parking lot, walking loop train, fitness stations, a basketball court, a tennis court with pickleball overlay and a rain garden.

Officials reached out to the public for feedback in August to understand the needs of the community. According to Superintendent of Public Works Corey Wierema, residents said they were looking for more family-friendly amenities, ways to cool off in the summer and casual recreation options.

This input helped to shape the Phase 2 design, Wierema said.

"We’re really grateful to receive OSLAD funding for the second phase of the South Park Master Plan. This support from the Governor and IDNR shows that we have a solid, long-term vision for the park and highlights the importance of our community driven approach," Wierema said. "Together, these improvements create a park that supports wellness, play, community gatherings, and everyday outdoor enjoyment. South Park is going to feel like a true neighborhood destination."

The total estimated cost for Phase 2 is $1,264,338, with the OSLAD grant covering $600,000 and city funding providing the remaining cost.

“This grant reflects Lake Forest’s thoughtful and strategic approach to improving our parks by leveraging state funding to enhance local investments,” said Mayor Stanford Tack. “South Park is an important community space, and Phase 2 directly supports the City’s 2025-2030 Strategic Plan by advancing recreation and community well-being, accessibility, and strong connections to our regional trail system.”