Plainfield Park District Receives Matching $600K Grant For Tamarack Settlement Park Development

PLAINFIELD, IL — The Plainfield Park District was the recipient of a $600,000 matching grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for the development of Tamarack Settlement Park.

With the park, at 25533 W. 127th St., spanning more than 30 acres, the Plainfield Park District intends to renovate and expand "unique recreational amenities" for the northwest region of its boundaries.

Established in 1986, the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments to help fund land acquisition and develop parks and outdoor spaces.

"We're thankful for the opportunity to further develop this community park," Plainfield Park District Executive Director Carlo Capalbo said in a statement. "We're always trying to find ways to enhance recreation opportunities in the District, and this state grant is a fantastic way to help make that happen. We're honored to receive one of the 67 grants awarded statewide."

The project elements, listed below, will meet or exceed Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines, officials said.

• Expanded playground with turf surfacing
• Sensory/neurodivergent playground area
• Tot play area
• Adventure play area
• Inline hockey rink
• Pickleball courts
• Fitness pod
• Cricket field improvements
• Ballfield improvements
• Deck overlook at the pond
• Interpretive signage
• Improved access, site furnishings and amenities

The Plainfield Park District received input about needs for the space at a public meeting Aug. 19 and through responses shared in an online survey. The park district plans to gather additional input for the playground equipment in the future.

Construction on the project is expected to begin in the fall and be completed by summer 2027.