Romeoville Applies For OSLAD Grant For Park Property

ROMEOVILLE, IL — The Romeoville Board has authorized the application of an Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development grant for the Ward property, just west of Volunteer Park.

OSLAD grants are given by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

"As part of the grant, the Village would be responsible for 50 percent of the matching funds," Director of Parks and Recreation Kelly Rajzer said during the meeting.

Rajzer said the grant application is for property just west of Volunteer Park.

"The front of the parcel may be comprised of commercial development, while the eastern portion would be developed into a more natural area," Rajzer said.

The natural area could include a raised community garden, trails, bike repair station, butterfly and rain garden, park shelter, open space and a parking lot.

"This would be the general concept and would be finalized if we receive the grant," Rajzer said.

Trustee Dave Richards said the Village is not buying or authorizing a purchase for the property, but are simply trying to get grant funds for the property.