HARVEY – Homewood-Flossmoor Park District and Midlothian Park District will receive a combined total of $1 million in grant funding thanks to the assistance of State Senator Napoleon B. Harris, III.

“It’s important we fund our local park districts so they can give young people and families opportunities for safe and fun activities,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “More supervised programs running in our community will help put youth on a path to success.”

The grant funding is provided through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program. A total of $55.2 million was awarded to 100 local park projects across the state. In Harris’s district, Homewood-Flossmoor Park District was awarded $600,000 and Midlothian Park District was awarded $400,000. 

Midlothian Park District will use the grant to make upgrades at Memorial Park, specifically for the west side of the park. They will be installing 2 pickle ball courts, new outdoor fitness stations, replacing the existing playground, adding a pollinator garden with bug houses along with a community gathering space.

Homewood-Flossmoor Park District will use the OSLAD grant funding to expand Irwin Park with new amenities, including a new playground, rain garden with pollinator plants, story walk, seating areas and more. These improvements will not only enhance the park's aesthetic appeal but also make it a more inclusive and enjoyable space for residents of all ages.

“I am thrilled that the Homewood-Flossmoor Park District has been awarded a generous grant from the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development, or OSLAD, program,” said Doug Boehm, Homewood-Flossmoor Park District Executive Director.

To learn more about OSLAD grant funding, click here.